Scarlet Fire Kousa Dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Rutpink’) Scarlet Fire Dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Rutpink’) is a groundbreaking pink-flowering Kousa Dogwood introduced by Rutgers University, known for its unusually vibrant, deep fuchsia blooms. Developed for strong landscape performance, this cultivar combines intense floral color with excellent vigor, disease resistance, and four-season appeal – making it one of the most striking ornamental dogwoods available today. Distinctive Features ‘Scarlet Fire’ produces large, vivid blooms with deep pink to fuchsia bracts that hold their color far longer than other pink Kousas. The show begins in late spring and continues well into early summer. Its rich green foliage forms a lush backdrop through summer before transitioning to purple-red hues in fall. In winter, attractive mottled bark adds texture. With a mature height of 20 to 25 feet and a rounded, pyramidal form, it fits beautifully into both traditional and modern landscapes. Growing Conditions Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil Water: Moderate; keep evenly moist, especially while establishing USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8 Ideal Uses Focal Point: Bold floral color and form make it a natural landscape centerpiece Specimen Tree: Excellent choice for open lawn areas, courtyards, or near patios Mixed Borders: Adds dramatic contrast to evergreen and shrub backdrops Foundation Planting: Provides height, softness, and vibrant seasonal color near structures Public or Commercial Spaces: Strong performer with high visual impact and disease resistance Low Maintenance Care Watering: Provide regular water during establishment; benefits from mulching to retain soil moisture Pruning: Minimal shaping needed; prune only in winter to remove damaged or crossing branches Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring Mulching: Maintain a mulch ring to conserve moisture and suppress weeds Protection: Exceptionally disease resistant; tolerant of urban and suburban conditions Why Choose Scarlet Fire Dogwood? Intense Pink Blooms: Some of the darkest, most vibrant bracts available in a Kousa Dogwood Long Bloom Time: Extended flowering well into summer Proven Performer: Bred for vigor, color retention, and resistance to anthracnose Elegant Structure: Pyramidal habit offers symmetry and landscape form Focal Point: A showpiece tree that commands attention throughout the growing season Cornus kousa ‘Rutpink’ Scarlet Fire brings unmatched floral brilliance and reliable performance, offering a bold and unforgettable focal point for gardens, streetscapes, and curated landscapes.