The Average Height of a Kousa Dogwood

Avergage Height

• The kousa dogwood tree (Cornus kousa) grows to an average height of between 15 and 25 feet, with a canopy spread of approximately 25 feet. This flowering tree is considered a slow-to-medium grower which, according to the Arbor Day Foundation, denotes a tree that grows an average of 13 to 24 inches annually. Forming a rounded shape, it is well-suited for planting near buildings, walls and utility lines.

Hardiness

• An ornamental, landscape tree, the kousa dogwood is hardy to U.S. Department of Agriculture Hardiness zones 5 through 8, an area that encompasses much of the country aside from the extreme northern and southern states. It produces white flowers in the spring and early summer that give way to purple or scarlet foliage in the fall. The leaves grow to an average length of between 2 and 4 inches.

Environment

• The kousa dogwood grows upright in its early years, then begins to broaden and branch horizontally with maturity. The average height of the tree may be impacted by environmental concerns; it appreciates full sunshine with a mix of partial shade and enjoys earth with an average content of moisture. The tree is somewhat drought-resistant and thrives in acidic, loamy, sandy and well-drained soils. Mulch can be placed under the canopy to help maintain soil moisture.

Fun Facts

• The tree produces a pinkish-red fruit in September or October that is edible and similar in appearance to a raspberry, although gardeners may find that it poses a bit of a litter problem. In addition to serving as a fine landscape specimen, the kousa dogwood may also be enjoyed for the wildlife it draws, with birds and squirrels frequently enjoying the seeds and fruit of the tree.