Cornus kousa Samaritan ('Samzam') (v)

RHS Plant Profile
kousa [Samaritan]

Synonyms

Cornus 'Samzam'
Cornus kousa 'Samaratin'

Shrubs Trees

Shrub or small ornamental tree to 7m in height, bark silvery grey to brown and silver when it begins to peel at maturity or in winter. Elliptic, opposite leaves variegated, with wide creamy white edges, sometimes pink in spring, margins slightly undulating. Petal-like bracts creamy green to creamy white and creamy white central cluster of flowers. Foliage turns pink and burgundy maroon in autumn. Sweet, red edible fruits are strawberry-like.

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

4-8 metres

Max Spread

4-8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
4-8 metres
Max Height
4-8 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Cornaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy, Spreading branched
Genus
Cornus can be deciduous shrubs or trees, or creeping, woody-based perennials, some with brightly coloured young stems. Tiny flowers are borne in dense clusters, sometimes with showy bracts. Many have fine autumn colour
Name Status
Trade

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in fertile, humus-rich, well-drained, neutral to acid soil in sun or light shade. For more advice, see flowering dogwood cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by semi-hardwood or hardwood cuttings or grafting

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Architectural
  • Low Maintenance

Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

Generally pest-free but may be susceptible to horse chestnut scale

Diseases

May be susceptible to cornus anthracnose and honey fungus