
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:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a site with well-drained, acidic soil.
- Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball, but no deeper.
- Gently tease out any circling roots before placing in the hole.
- Ensure the root flare is at or slightly above ground level.
- Backfill with native soil and water thoroughly to settle.
- 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
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
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.
More Cornus to compare

Red Twig Dogwood
Cornus sericea 'Red Twig'

Arctic Fire Red Osier Dogwood
Cornus sericea 'Arctic Fire'

Kousa Dogwood
Cornus kousa

Midwinter Fire Dogwood
Cornus sanguinea 'Midwinter Fire'

Giant Dogwood, Wedding Cake Tree
Cornus controversa

Red Osier Dogwood
Cornus sericea 'Cardinal'
