Smokeshow Kousa Dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘HGFI65jd’) draws attention with smoke-tinted white bracts that envelope button-like greenish-yellow blooms in late spring. New foliage debuts in a rosy purple tone, transitioning to glossy green as summer advances, then often displaying splashes of pinkish-red in autumn. This handsome tree grows around 15 to 20 feet tall and spreads 12 to 18 feet wide, forming a rounded canopy fit for decorative focal points or group plantings. Raspberry-like fruits appear later in the season, occasionally used for jellies but especially relished by birds.
In addition to its dramatic bracts and ever-shifting foliage, this Kousa Dogwood exhibits better disease resistance compared to many flowering trees. Native to parts of Asia, it adapts effectively in zones 5 through 8, managing full sun in cooler regions and partial shade in hotter climates. The tree’s upright but branching habit lends it to a variety of uses: as a single trunk statement piece, a multi-stemmed accent along borders, or a low-branched shrub for hedges. Fruit that matures in summer and persists into fall often attracts songbirds and pollinators, making it a wildlife-friendly selection. Its compact size and consistent interest make it an excellent choice for yards of varying dimensions.
Smokeshow Kousa Dogwood Care
Plant in a location with well-draining, moderately acidic soil and avoid areas prone to waterlogging. Provide sun to partial shade, with cooler zones allowing more direct sunlight. Keep young trees adequately watered, focusing on thorough soakings rather than shallow sprinklings, and maintain a mulch layer to conserve moisture. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring supports strong leaf growth and steady flowering.
Pruning needs are minimal beyond removing broken or crossing branches. Light shaping can be done in late fall or early winter, while the tree is dormant. For a small container-grown plant, occasional root pruning or repotting every few years is necessary. Most gardeners leave its graceful natural form unaltered.
Smokeshow Kousa Dogwood Spacing
When planning for a row or hedge, keep at least 8 to 10 feet between each plant to allow adequate room for crown expansion. If it’s showcased as a single specimen, choose a spot with a 12- to 15-foot radius for optimal visibility. For containers, start with a pot at least 16 inches wide and upgrade as roots expand. This spacing provides ample room for robust growth and striking seasonal color.
- SKU:
- 1231021657-pc
Container Sizes
Please Note: The pictures below are to give a general representation of the different container sizes. The actual size/ages of plants are estimates and will vary based on type of plant, time of year, last pruning & many other factors.

Quart Pot
Also Known As:
Quart
Plant Age:
~ 6 months - 1 year
Plant Size:
~ 4"-8"
Pot Size:
~ 4.75"H x 4.5"W
Volume:
1.50 quarts

2.5 Quart
Also Known As:
2.5 Quart Pot
Plant Age:
~ 1 - 2 years old
Plant Size:
~ 8"-12"
Pot Size:
~ 6.5"H x 6.5"W
Volume:
2.20-2.30 quarts

#1 Pot
Also Known As:
#1 Container
1 Gallon
Plant Age:
~ 1 - 2 years old
Plant Size:
~ 10"-14"
Pot Size:
~ 7"H x 7.75"W
Volume:
2.26-3.73 quarts

#2 Pot
Also Known As:
#2 Container
2 Gallon
Plant Age:
~ 1.5 - 3 years old
Plant Size:
~ 12"-18"
Pot Size:
~ 9.5"H x 9.5"W
Volume:
1.19-1.76 gallons

#3 Pot
Also Known As:
#3 Container
3 Gallon
Plant Age:
~ 2 - 4 years old
Plant Size:
~ 12"-30"
Pot Size:
~9.5"H x 11"W
Volume:
2.32-2.76 gallons

#5 Pot
Also Known As:
#5 Container
5 Gallon
Plant Age:
~3-4 years old
Plant Size:
~ 20" - 60"
Pot Size:
~11" H x 10 1/2” W
Volume:
3.5 - 4 gallons

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Pre-Ordered Plants
Pre-ordered plants are scheduled to ship in Spring 2025. We carefully plan our shipping dates based on your USDA Plant Hardiness Zone to ensure optimal planting conditions upon arrival. Want it sooner/later? Reach out, and we'll try our best to accommodate.
Estimated Spring Shipping Schedule
Estimated ship week for pre-ordered plants will ship based on growing zones as shown below.
Growing Zone | Estimated Ship Week |
---|---|
Zone 10 | March 24th |
Zone 9 | March 31st |
Zone 8 | April 7th |
Zone 7 | April 14th |
Zone 6b | April 21st |
Zone 6a | April 28th |
Zone 5b | May 5th |
Zone 5a | May 12th |
Zone 4 | May 19th |
Zone 3 | May 26th |
Note: These are only estimated ship dates. Plants may ship out later depending on weather & growing conditions of the plant.
Note: Only plants indicated as pre-order will ship as shown above. All other plants and hard goods will ship as normal.
Plants Shipping Now
Plants that are currently in stock typically ship within 2-7 business days after your order is placed.