Kousa dogwood forms a small, vase‑shaped tree 6–8 m, celebrated for its show‑stopping white to pink bracts in early summer after leaf‑out, extending the dogwood season. Decorative raspberry‑like red fruits follow, edible though bland, and scarlet‑crimson autumn foliage closes the display. Thriving in full sun or dappled shade, it prefers moist, acidic, well‑drained soil and is hardy to −25 °C. Disease‑resistant and low‑maintenance, it is a superb specimen or understory tree that attracts bees and birds.