As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have had the opportunity to observe and work with different species of dogwood trees, including the flowering dogwood and the kousa dogwood. While both share similarities, there are distinct differences between the two.
1. Bloom Time: One noticeable difference between flowering dogwood (Cornus florida) and kousa dogwood (Cornus kousa) is their bloom time. Flowering dogwood typically blooms about a month earlier than the kousa dogwood. In many regions, the flowering dogwood’s blossoms appear in early spring, while kousa dogwood blooms in late spring or early summer. This difference in bloom time can be useful when planning your garden or landscape, as it allows for a more extended period of dogwood flowering.
2. Fruit Structure: Another distinguishing characteristic is the fruit structure. Flowering dogwood produces bright red berry-like drupes. These drupes are typically 1/2 inch in diameter and contain a single seed. On the other hand, the fruits of the kousa dogwood are a globose pink to red compound drupe. Each drupe is made up of several small individual fruits, creating a unique texture and appearance. These fruits are often larger than those of the flowering dogwood, reaching up to 1 inch in diameter.
3. Bark Texture: The bark texture of flowering dogwood and kousa dogwood also differs. Flowering dogwood has a smoother bark texture, with shallow ridges and a grayish-brown color. In contrast, kousa dogwood has a rougher bark texture, characterized by deeper ridges and a more mottled appearance. Some gardeners appreciate the visual interest provided by the distinctive bark of the kousa dogwood.
4. Leaf Shape: While the overall leaf shape of flowering dogwood and kousa dogwood may appear similar, there are subtle differences. The leaves of flowering dogwood are typically oval or elliptical, with pronounced parallel veins. Kousa dogwood leaves are also oval but often have a more pointed tip and slightly curved edges. These slight variations in leaf shape can add visual interest when comparing the two species.
5. Cold Hardiness: In terms of cold hardiness, kousa dogwood tends to be more tolerant of colder climates compared to flowering dogwood. This makes the kousa dogwood a popular choice for gardeners in northern regions where harsh winters are common. If you live in an area with cold winters, the kousa dogwood may be a better option for your garden.
While both flowering dogwood and kousa dogwood belong to the same family, there are several differences that set them apart. These include bloom time, fruit structure, bark texture, leaf shape, and cold hardiness. By understanding these distinctions, you can make informed decisions when selecting dogwood trees for your garden or landscaping projects.
