Cornus poliophylla
Cornus poliophylla
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Pl. E38F — Cornus poliophylla
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IOverview
Overview
Cornus poliophylla, commonly known as Chinese dogwood or kousa dogwood, is a deciduous shrub native to China's north-central and south-central regions, Tibet, and has been introduced to the eastern United States including Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, and Washington D.C. This plant thrives in moist, light to medium soil types and prefers full sun to partial shade. It grows up to 4 meters tall and is notable for its edible fruit, which can be enjoyed fresh or used in various culinary applications. Its adaptability and ornamental value make it a desirable addition to gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Cornus poliophylla?
Cornus poliophylla, commonly known as Chinese dogwood or kousa dogwood, is a deciduous shrub native to China's north-central and south-central regions, Tibet, and has been introduced to the eastern United States including Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, and Washington D.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Cornus poliophylla thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows well in USDA zones 6-9 and can reach a height of 4 meters. For propagation, use seeds or cuttings. The plant is hardy in temperate regions and is native to parts of China and the eastern United States. Its fruit is edible.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Mature size
4.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Cornus poliophylla for the first time
7steps
Start with planting Cornus poliophylla in a sunny spot and follow these steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Cornus poliophylla plant, garden gloves, trowel, watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or fall when the weather is cooler and more stable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5; prepare containers with potting mix if planting in pots.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants directly into the garden, spacing them about 3-4 meters apart for ample growth.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged; mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade, especially in hot climates. Water deeply once a week during dry spells. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the plant in late winter to remove dead or weak branches and encourage new growth; fruit can be harvested after ripening.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Cornus poliophylla is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. It is often consumed fresh but can also be dried for later use. Skip the specific preparation methods to maintain brevity.
Other uses:Lumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 30 native
Asia2 regions
native (2)ChinaGeorgia
Broader regions
native:New Jersey, Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Masachusettes, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Ontario
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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