A pair of Cornus ousa

This pair of Cornus kousa brings together two varieties of Japanese dogwoods, 'Satomi' and 'Milky Way', large deciduous bushes prized for their massive flowering in May-June, their autumn foliage in shades of red, and their decorative red fruits. These fruits, which appear in September, resemble strawberries and measure 2.5 to 3 cm. They are loved by some birds. Reaching a height of over 3.50 m, they can be planted individually or in a large shrub bed. They have excellent cold resistance, down to -20 °C. Plant them in non-scorching sun, in slightly acidic to neutral (non-limestone), moist, rich, and well-drained soil.

This duo consists of:

1 Cornus kousa 'Satomi': this variety is distinguished by its large pink bract flowers measuring 8-10 cm in diameter. Reaching a height of 2.5 to 5 metres with a spread of 2.50 m, its architectural silhouette, supported by staggered and horizontal branches, gives it a very Japanese look.

1 Cornus kousa 'Milky Way': with its abundant white flowering, which seems to illuminate the garden, 'Milky Way' is equally attractive. Larger than 'Satomi' (up to 5 m in height and 3 m in spread), this variety also has denser foliage. It forms a true small tree with a wide conical habit and cracked bark.

Cornus kousa 'Satomi' and 'Milky Way' should be planted in early spring or autumn. Choose a gently sunny to semi-shady location and plant them in humus-rich soil to promote their growth. These shrubs can be planted individually to highlight their habit and flowering, or in a bed with other large shrubs to create a voluminous effect. A spacing of 2 to 3 metres between each plant will allow for optimal development. Ensure that the soil remains moist, especially during the first years after planting. Mulch the base in summer to keep it moist.

To accompany the Japanese dogwoods in this duo, you can choose, for example, large Chinese Azaleas such as Rhododendron luteum or Florida Azalea (Rhododendron austrinum), which offer a sunny spring flowering. They are ideally placed in front of or mixed with the Cornus for a contrast of colours. Large Rhododendrons such as Rhododendron ponticum with pink flowers or Rhododendron x catawbiense 'Roseum Elegans' can be planted in the background for a depth effect. Finally, bushy Hydrangeas, with their large summer inflorescences, are excellent companions to place in front of the Japanese dogwoods.