SCIENTIFIC NAME: Cornus kousa 'Little Poncho'

COMMON NAME: Little Poncho Dogwood

GARDEN SIZE: 8 to 10 feet tall by 5 to 6 feet wide

GROWTH RATE: Slow to moderate

USDA ZONE: 5 to 8

Full sun to part shade

WATER & SOIL: Prefers moist, well-drained, organically rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Requires regular watering during the first 1–2 years, especially in dry spells. Once established, may have moderate drought tolerance, but still benefits from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry periods. Avoid compacted clay or poorly drained sites.

HABIT (FORM): True dwarf; rounded, compact

FOLIAGE: Deciduous; dark green ovate leaves turn red-orange to scarlet in fall

FLOWERS: Large, pointed white bracts in early summer; followed by spiky red-orange fruit

PLANT ORIGIN: East Asia

WILDLIFE SUPPORT: May provide some nesting sites and shelter for birds and small mammals, but does not serve as much of a food source for local insects and wildlife.

FERTILIZING: Generally not required. If desired, apply a layer of organic compost in early spring to support growth and soil health.

PRUNING: Minimal pruning needed. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter to early spring before new growth begins. Avoid heavy pruning, as it can reduce flowering.

TOXICITY FLAGS: Dogwoods are generally considered non-toxic. Fruits of kousa dogwoods are edible.

USES: Specimen planting, ornamental borders, smaller lawn tree