Cornus Kousa Satomi – 5 Litre

5 Litre Pot

Please note these are hefty plants and are approximately 1.4m tall

• RHS Award of Garden Merit
• Position: Full sun
• Soil: Fertile, well drained
• Growth rate: Average
• Flowering period: May – June
• Hardiness: H5
• Eventual height: 7m
• Eventual spread: 5m

Cornus Kousa Satomi, also known as ‘Flowering Dogwood’ and holder of the much coveted RHS Award of Garden Merit, is a broadly conical, deciduous tree that is known for its flaking tan/grey bark and wavy margined dark green oval pointed leaves which turn a stunning orange through to red in the Autumn.  The small green flowers of this Flowering Dogwood are surrounded by much larger light pink bracts changing to a darker pink during May and June.  The tree also produces small, edible, raspberry-like fruit in the fall, which can be enjoyed by both wildlife and humans alike, but are best left to the garden birds and other wildlife.

The tree is relatively low maintenance, preferring well-drained soil and partial shade. It can grow up to 7 meters tall and 5 meters wide, making it a great option for small gardens or as a specimen tree. The tree is also great for wildlife, as the berries provide food for birds and other small animals.

How to care for your Cornus Kousa Satomi

Caring for this Cornus is relatively easy, it prefers well-drained soil and partial shade, but it can tolerate full sun as well. It is also important to make sure that the soil is not too dry, as the tree needs regular watering to thrive.

When first planting the tree, make sure to dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. This will give the roots enough room to grow and establish themselves. Backfill the hole with the removed soil, mixed with compost or well-rotted manure. Water the tree well after planting and continue to water it regularly during the first growing season.

Fertilise the tree in early Spring with a balanced fertiliser. Prune the tree in late winter to shape and control its size, also to remove any dead or diseased branches.

Overall, Cornus Kousa ‘Satomi’ is a low-maintenance tree that will thrive with proper care and attention.