Dogwood - Summer Gold

A Hardy, Variegated Dogwood with Golden Foliage and Elegant Summer Blooms

Dogwood ‘Summer Gold’ is a standout Kousa dogwood cultivar prized for its bright golden-variegated foliage and refined ornamental appeal. In late spring to early summer, creamy white bracts emerge above the foliage, creating a soft, elegant floral display. The leaves feature vivid golden-yellow margins surrounding rich green centers, providing eye-catching color throughout the growing season. As temperatures cool, the foliage often develops warm pink and red tones, adding additional seasonal interest.

Key Features:

• Showy White Blooms: Produces creamy white bracts in early summer, extending the dogwood bloom season.

• Golden Variegated Foliage: Bright yellow margins add bold color and contrast from spring through fall.

• Hardy and Adaptable: Well suited to a range of soil types and climates within its growing zones.

• Excellent Fall Color: Leaves transition to shades of pink, red, and burgundy in autumn.

• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established.

Mature Size:

• Height: 15–20 feet

• Spread: 15–20 feet

• Growth Rate: Moderate

USDA Hardiness Zones:

• Zones: 5–8

Chill Hours:

• N/A

Care Instructions:

• Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade; some afternoon shade is recommended in hotter climates.

• Soil: Thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil rich in organic matter.

• Watering: Water regularly during establishment and dry periods; avoid consistently wet soils.

• Pruning: Prune lightly in late winter or after flowering to remove dead or damaged branches and maintain form.

• Mulching: Mulch around the base to retain moisture and protect shallow roots.

Landscape Uses:

• Ideal as a specimen tree in lawns, entryways, and patios.

• Excellent for ornamental gardens and mixed borders.

• Adds multi-season color and texture to residential landscapes.

• Complements woodland and partially shaded garden settings.

The Dogwood ‘Summer Gold’ (Cornus kousa ‘Summer Gold’) is an exceptional ornamental tree that combines elegant summer blooms with luminous golden foliage and vibrant fall color. Its manageable size, durability, and low-maintenance nature make it a beautiful and reliable choice for adding year-round interest to the landscape.