Kousa Dogwood Cornus kousa 'Schmetterling'

Water

The Kousa dogwood, which includes the 'Schmetterling' variety, prefers consistently moist soil, especially during drought conditions. It is important to water the plant deeply, which generally means applying 1 to 2 gallons of water for young trees once a week, and more for established trees, depending on weather conditions. During hot and dry spells, watering should be increased to twice a week. An effective method is to use a drip irrigation system or soaker hose to provide a slow, deep watering that reaches the roots. Overhead watering should be avoided to prevent fungal diseases.

Light

The Kousa dogwood enjoys a spot with full sun to partial shade. It thrives best with morning sunlight and some afternoon shade, particularly in the hotter regions. The ideal lighting condition would provide the plant with at least four to six hours of direct sunlight each day, protecting it from intense late-afternoon sun that could stress the plant.

Temperature

The Kousa dogwood is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, typically from -20°F to 85°F, but it prefer temperatures between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth. Prolonged temperatures over 85°F may stress the plant, and winter temperatures below -20°F could potentially damage it. The plant is well-adapted to the temperature variations commonly experienced in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 8.

Pruning

Prune the Kousa dogwood to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. This plant benefits from pruning in late winter or early spring before the new growth starts. Light pruning to shape the tree can be done at any time, but extensive pruning should be limited to the dormant season. It’s generally not necessary to prune this tree every year; some light thinning every 2 to 3 years is sufficient.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Kousa dogwood 'Schmetterling' thrives in fertile, well-draining soil that is acidic to neutral, with an ideal pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. A mix rich in organic matter such as leaf mold or compost will enhance growth. For the best soil mix, combine equal parts loamy topsoil, peat moss, and pine bark to facilitate good drainage and provide a nutrient-rich environment.

Repotting

Kousa dogwood 'Schmetterling' trees do not require frequent repotting as they are typically grown outdoors. Young trees may need to be transplanted every 3 to 4 years as they grow, or if they outgrow their current space. Ensure each new location or pot allows ample room for root growth and has proper soil conditions.

Humidity & Misting

Kousa dogwood 'Schmetterling' prefers average to high humidity levels. It tolerates the typical range of outdoor humidity well and does not demand special humidity considerations, making it adaptable to most temperate climates without supplemental humidity.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Not ideal for indoor planting; needs outdoor space.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade, acidic soil, mulch well, protect from wind.

• Hardiness zone

  5-8 USDA

Life cycle

The Cornus kousa 'Schmetterling', commonly known as Kousa Dogwood, begins its life cycle as a dormant seed which requires a period of cold stratification to germinate. Upon germination in the spring, the seedling grows and establishes a root system, developing into a young plant with distinctive, opposite leaves. Over several years, the Kousa Dogwood matures into a flowering tree, typically blooming in late spring to early summer with showy, white bracts surrounding small, greenish-yellow flowers. After pollination, these flowers develop into globular fruit clusters by late summer to fall, which are eaten by birds that disperse the seeds. The tree goes through a period of dormancy in winter, shedding its leaves, and preserving resources until the next growing season. Throughout its life, the Kousa Dogwood may experience multiple flowering and fruiting cycles, eventually reaching a mature age of 20 to 30 years or more, depending on growing conditions and health.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late winter

• Cornus kousa 'Schmetterling', commonly known as the Butterfly Kousa Dogwood, is often propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. The best time to propagate is in late summer, when the wood is partially matured yet still flexible. To propagate using this method, take cuttings that are 4 to 6 inches long, ensuring at least two sets of leaves are present. Remove the lower leaves, and dip the base of the cuttings in rooting hormone to encourage root development. Then, insert the cuttings into a well-drained rooting medium such as a mixture of peat and perlite or sand. The cuttings should be kept in a warm environment with high humidity, making sure the medium remains moist but not waterlogged. With consistent care, roots typically develop within a few weeks to months, after which the new plants can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.