ShrubsCornus kousa
Japanese Dogwood
Japanese Dogwood is an elegant large shrub or small tree with striking white bracts that sit like stars on the branches in June and July. In autumn, raspberry-shaped red fruits appear and the foliage turns deep crimson. The horizontal branching pattern gives the tree year-round character.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Partial shade, Full sun
- Water
- Medium
- Height
- 300–600 cm
- Spread
- 300–500 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 5–8
- Family
- Cornaceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- white
- Wildlife value
- bees, birds
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in partial shade or sun in slightly acidic, well-drained soil. The shrub grows slowly and requires little maintenance. Apply compost in spring and mulch the base with leaf mould. Water during dry spells in the first years.
Pruning tips
Prune as little as possible to preserve the natural, layered growth habit. Only remove dead wood and crossing branches in early spring. The plant tolerates heavy pruning poorly.
Good companions
ShrubsRhododendron catawbiense
Rhododendron
The Rhododendron is an evergreen shrub that produces spectacular clusters of purple or pink flowers in May and June above glossy dark-green foliage. The shrub can grow quite large and makes an imposing presence in partial shade. Rhododendrons are iconic in woodland gardens and rural plantings.
ShrubsHydrangea macrophylla
Hydrangea
Hydrangea is a popular garden shrub with large, globe-shaped flower heads blooming from June through September. The flowers turn blue in acidic soil and pink in alkaline soil. A sturdy plant that thrives in sheltered spots with partial shade.
PerennialsHosta sieboldiana
Hosta
Hosta is the quintessential shade plant, valued for its large, blue-green, ribbed leaves. Light purple or white bell-shaped flowers appear on tall stems in July and August. Over the years the plant forms substantial clumps that give a shaded border a lush character.