Kousa Dogwood
Cornus kousa
Family Cornaceae

Characteristics:
* Leaves opposite, elliptic, dark green above and hairy beneath. 2-4".
* Flowers creamy white, 4 petals that taper at the tip.
* Bark mottled, exfoliates with age.
* Fruit a hanging, spherical, studded ball.
* Height: 20-30'.

Natural History:
* Flowers May - June, 2 weeks after common Flowering Dogwood.
* Habitat: Usually grown for decoration.
* Alien. Native to China, Korea, and Japan.

Connections!
* The fruits of the Kousa Dogwood are edible, though considered a bit mealy.

* Kousa Dogwood was introduced to the United States in 1875.