Stellar Pink Dogwood (Cornus x ‘Rutgan’) Stellar Pink Dogwood (Cornus x ‘Rutgan’) is a disease resistant Rutgers hybrid that blends the graceful form and flower power of flowering dogwood with the durability of kousa dogwood, producing soft shell pink spring bracts, clean summer foliage, and rich red to burgundy fall color on a tidy, upright framework ideal for residential landscapes. Distinctive Features Large, overlapping pink bracts blanket the canopy in late spring after leaves emerge, creating a rounded, star like display. Foliage remains dark green and remarkably clean through summer, then turns vivid red and burgundy in fall. As a sterile selection, it sets no messy fruit, focusing energy on bloom and foliage. Naturally upright with strong branching, it matures into a symmetrical small tree with excellent year round presence. Growing Conditions Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade. Soil: Moist, well drained, slightly acidic soil. Water: Moderate; provide consistent moisture during dry spells, especially when establishing. USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8. Ideal Uses Focal Point: Soft pink bracts and tidy form make a standout specimen. Specimen Tree: Perfect for front yards, courtyards, and lawn islands. Mixed Borders: Pairs well with evergreens and later blooming shrubs. Foundation Planting: Adds vertical interest and a refined silhouette near buildings. Residential Landscapes: Four season appeal with minimal litter. Low Maintenance Care Watering: Keep soil evenly moist the first 1 to 2 seasons; more tolerant once mature. Pruning: Minimal; remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches after bloom. Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring if growth is weak. Mulching: Maintain a 2 to 3 inch mulch ring to protect roots and conserve moisture. Protection: Bred for resistance to anthracnose and powdery mildew. Why Choose Stellar Pink Dogwood? Soft Pink Blooms: Elegant late spring display across the upper canopy. Disease Resistance: Rutgers breeding for improved health and vigor. Clean and Tidy: Sterile selection avoids fruit drop. Year Round Interest: Spring bloom, summer polish, fall color, and refined structure. Landscape Ready: Upright, balanced habit suits high visibility placements. Cornus x ‘Rutgan’ Stellar Pink Dogwood brings reliable bloom, resilient health, and a polished silhouette, delivering a long lived, low maintenance focal point for gardens seeking soft color and dependable performance.