Starlight Dogwood (Cornus kousa x nuttallii ‘Starlight’) Starlight Dogwood (Cornus kousa x nuttallii ‘Starlight’) is a vigorous, hybrid dogwood tree developed by the University of Washington for superior performance in landscapes. A cross between Cornus kousa and Cornus nuttallii, this tree combines the elegant form and disease resistance of Kousa Dogwood with the towering height and large floral display of Pacific Dogwood. The result is a majestic ornamental tree with exceptional presence and resilience. Distinctive Features ‘Starlight’ is known for its large, overlapping white bracts that bloom in late spring, covering the tree in a dramatic floral show. Its dark green foliage remains attractive through summer and transforms into shades of red and purple in fall. The tree forms a symmetrical, upright-oval canopy and typically grows 25 to 30 feet tall and 15 to 20 feet wide. Unlike its Pacific Dogwood parent, ‘Starlight’ is highly resistant to anthracnose and performs reliably in urban and suburban settings. Growing Conditions Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil Water: Moderate; needs regular watering during establishment USDA Hardiness Zones: 6 to 9 Ideal Uses Focal Point: Large blooms and upright form create a bold visual centerpiece Specimen Tree: Ideal for large gardens, open lawns, or estate landscapes Screening Tree: Upright form provides structure along property lines or garden boundaries Mixed Woodland Edges: Blends well with native and ornamental trees in semi-shaded areas Commercial Landscapes: Reliable bloom and structure make it suitable for public plantings Low Maintenance Care Watering: Keep soil evenly moist during the first few growing seasons Pruning: Prune lightly in winter to remove dead wood and maintain shape Fertilizing: Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage growth Mulching: Maintain mulch around the base to protect roots and conserve moisture Protection: Naturally resistant to dogwood anthracnose and other common diseases Why Choose Starlight Dogwood? Large White Blooms: Showy flowers make a dramatic late-spring statement Hybrid Vigor: Combines the best traits of Pacific and Kousa Dogwoods Disease Resistance: Developed for resistance to anthracnose and powdery mildew Elegant Form: Strong vertical growth provides symmetry and structure Focal Point: A commanding presence in any landscape with year-round appeal Cornus kousa x nuttallii ‘Starlight’ delivers height, resilience, and standout beauty, making it a high-performance focal point for large residential and public landscapes alike.