Cornus  'Starlight'
tree

Starlight Dogwood

Cornus 'Starlight'

$115.95
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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

300 inches

Width

216 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

50+ years

Native To

Hybrid

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

A hybrid cross between Cornus kousa and Cornus nuttallii, this group of dogwoods aims to capture the enormous flower size of the Pacific dogwood with the hardiness and disease resistance of the Kousa. 'Starlight' is celebrated for its remarkably large, pure white flower bracts that can reach 6 inches in diameter, creating a truly stellar display. It has a vigorous, upright, vase-shaped habit.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesStarlight is a premier specimen tree, offering an unforgettable floral display of giant white bracts in spring. Its clean summer foliage, reliable red-purple fall color, and elegant winter branching provide year-round appeal.
Practical UsesThe upright, vase-shaped habit makes it suitable for planting near patios, walkways, or as a street tree where lower branches are not desired. It provides filtered shade beneath its canopy.
Ecological BenefitsWhile it is often sterile or produces sparse fruit, its flowers are a valuable resource for pollinators. The tree's structure can provide shelter and nesting sites for birds.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

In Stock$115.95

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a site with well-drained, acidic soil.
  2. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball, but no deeper.
  3. Gently tease out any circling roots before placing in the hole.
  4. Ensure the root flare is at or slightly above ground level.
  5. Backfill with native soil and water thoroughly to settle.
  6. Apply a generous ring of mulch, keeping it off the trunk.

Pro Tip

Plant in a location protected from harsh winter winds and hot afternoon sun to ensure the best performance and flower production.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply and infrequently once established.
  • Provide good air circulation to minimize potential for disease.
  • Protect young trees from deer browse.
  • Enjoy the spectacular flower show in late spring.

Don't

  • Don't plant in heavy, compacted, or poorly drained soil.
  • Avoid sites with reflected heat from pavement or buildings.
  • Do not over-fertilize; this can lead to weak growth.
  • Refrain from pruning major branches, which can ruin its form.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Dramatic specimen tree for high-visibility areasElegant vertical accent in landscape designStunning focal point for a spring garden

Companion Plants

Acer palmatum Helleborus orientalis Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola' Brunnera macrophylla Astilbe

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Starlight Dogwood questions

What zones can Starlight Dogwood grow in?

Starlight Dogwood is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Starlight Dogwood deer resistant?

Yes — Starlight Dogwood is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Starlight Dogwood bloom?

Starlight Dogwood typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Starlight Dogwood need full sun?

Starlight Dogwood does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Starlight Dogwood with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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