kousa dogwood
Cornus kousa 'Kristin Lipka's Variegated Weeper'
Overview
The Kousa Dogwood 'Kristin Lipka's Variegated Weeper' is a stunning plant. Its unique variegated leaves are adorned with cream and pink coloring, creating a bold contrast against the dark green background. In the summer, it bears white, four-petal flowers, giving it an eye-catching appearance. It is also resistant to many common dogwood diseases, making it a reliable choice for any garden. During autumn, its leaves turn to a mix of yellow and pink adding to its striking effect. It can be grown in a multitude of sizes, from a shrub to a small tree and is perfect as an ornamental or center-piece for any garden or outdoor space.
Care Guide
Watering
Kousa dogwood (Cornus kousa 'Kristin Lipka's Variegated Weeper') should be watered deeply once a week during the spring and summer. In the early spring, pour enough water near the base of the plant to moisten the entire root system. Ensure the soil is not saturated, as this can cause root rot. During the active period of growth in the summer, water more frequently to prevent the soil from drying out. The plant should be watered enough so that a few inches of water penetrates the soil. During cooler months, reduce watering to once every 2 weeks.
Light
Kousa dogwood (Cornus kousa 'Kristin Lipka's Variegated Weeper') grows best in full sun to partial shade, with 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Morning sun and afternoon shade generally provide the best balance, since too much midday sun in summer can burn the leaves. In areas where the sun is intense, or during the heat of summer, trees will benefit from light afternoon shade.
Temperature
Hardiness zone 5–8.
Pruning
Kousa dogwood (Cornus kousa 'Kristin Lipka's Variegated Weeper') should be pruned lightly in late winter or early spring, before the buds begin to swell and break dormancy. Prune any dead, diseased, or damaged branches, as well as any that are crossing or rubbing against other branches. As a general rule, try to maintain an open crown while cutting away only as much as necessary. This species is best pruned by thinning out the outer branches to allow light to reach the inner branches. Make sure to prune at a 45° angle, removing 1/4 to 1/3 of the total number of branches and shoot tips. Pruning should not exceed 25% of the total crown size when done in a single year.
Propagation
Grafting Propagation, Layering Propagation, Cutting, Air Layering Propagation, Division, Tissue Culture
Uses & Symbolism
Attracts: Butterflies.
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