Chinese Dogwood 'National'

About this plant

Cornus kousa 'National' is a distinguished cultivar of the Chinese Dogwood, celebrated for its prolific floral display and refined architectural qualities. In late spring to early summer, this tree is adorned with a profusion of brilliant white, pointed bracts that create a stunning, star-like effect, often referred to as 'flowers'. These persist for several weeks, offering an extended period of ornamental interest. Beyond its exquisite blooms, 'National' provides year-round appeal. Its foliage maintains a healthy green through the growing season, transforming to attractive reddish-purple hues in fall, followed by decorative, reddish-pink, edible berries. With its graceful, upright-spreading habit and exfoliating bark that adds textural interest in winter, this dogwood is an ideal specimen tree for any discerning landscape. Grow 'National' as a focal point in your garden, an elegant addition to a mixed border, or to provide delicate shade over a seating area. Its disease resistance and adaptability make it a superior choice for both experienced gardeners and those new to cultivating dogwoods.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Plant in well-drained, acidic soil enriched with organic matter. Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and a layer of mulch to conserve soil moisture and regulate temperature. Pruning is generally not necessary, but can be done in late winter to remove dead or crossing branches, or to maintain desired shape.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.