The Beauty of the Cornus Kousa Chinensis: A Plant Profile
Cornus kousa 'Chinensis' is a cultivar of Cornus kousa, commonly known as the Chinese Dogwood. This cultivar is known for its small size, making it a suitable choice for use in smaller gardens or as a specimen plant.
In terms of growth habit, it has a rounded shape and typically reaches a height of 6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters) and a width of 8-10 feet (2.4-3 meters). The foliage is deciduous, arranged in opposite pairs, and glossy green. The leaves are typically 3-4 inches (7.6-10.2 cm) in length.
Native to China, this tree is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 5-8. The seeds and fruits of the Chinese Dogwood are red and typically appear in the fall. The flowers (technically, bracts) are generally white and bloom in the spring.
Regarding landscape use, Chinese Dogwood is often used as a specimen plant or as a small tree in gardens. It is also suitable for use in woodland gardens. Chinese Dogwood has good disease resistance, which makes it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners.
In terms of suitability for use below power lines, Chinese Dogwood is a suitable choice due to its small size. Other plants similar in characteristics, size, and habit to the Chinese Dogwood include the Japanese Dogwood (Cornus kousa var. Borealis) and the Pacific dogwood (Cornus nuttallii).
References:
Dirr, M. A. (2013). Manual of Woody Landscape Plants: Their Identification, Ornamental Characteristics, Culture, Propagation, and Uses. Stipes Publishing, LLC.
Flint, H. L., & Flint, D. L. (2018). Dogwoods: The Genus Cornus. Kew Publishing.
Gilman, E. F., & Watson, D. G. (2018). Cornus kousa. The Plant List.
Harkness, K. (2015). Cornus kousa 'Chinensis': Chinese Dogwood. Missouri Botanical Garden.
van Gelderen, D. M., & van Gelderen, C. J. (2006). Dogwoods: The Genus Cornus. Timber Press.