STARLIGHT® DOGWOOD

7 gallon

$107.89

CORNUS KOUSA X NUTTALLII 'KN4-43' STARLIGHT® PP16293

$107.89

The Starlight® Dogwood (Cornus kousa x nuttallii 'KN4-43') is a premier hybrid that bridges the gap between the majestic stature of the Pacific Dogwood and the rugged disease resistance of the Kousa Dogwood. This Rutgers University introduction is a true garden "star," boasting massive, 5-inch creamy white bracts that appear in late spring and blanket the tree for weeks. Its upright, oval habit and lustrous, dark green foliage make it a sophisticated focal point, while its immunity to powdery mildew and anthracnose ensures it remains a low-maintenance jewel in the landscape. As autumn arrives, the tree transforms into a fiery display of orange and deep red, often accompanied by ornamental strawberry-like fruits.

Quick Facts

Mature Height	30 feet
Mature Spread	20 feet
Grow Zone	USDA Zones 6-8
Bloom Time	May

Plant Care

Will this plant thrive in your climate?

Make sure you live within USDA Zones 6-8 by checking our Grow Zone Guide.

Select a location with well-drained, acidic soil. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper. Position the root flare slightly above the soil line to ensure oxygen reaching the roots. Mulch with 2-4 inches of organic matter (like pine bark) to keep roots cool, keeping it away from the trunk.

Minimal pruning is required. If needed, prune in late winter or early spring while the tree is dormant to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. To shape as a multi-stemmed tree, prune lower branches early in the tree's life. Avoid heavy pruning, which can reduce the following year's blooms.

Do not fertilize during the first growing season. Once established, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer designed for acid-loving plants in early spring before new growth begins. Over-fertilizing with high nitrogen can lead to lush leaves but fewer flowers.

In its first few winters, wrap the trunk with a tree guard to prevent "sunscald" or frost cracks, especially in Zone 6. Ensure the tree is well-hydrated before the first hard freeze. Apply a fresh layer of mulch in late fall to insulate the root system against temperature fluctuations.

Account