Stellar Nova™ Dogwood

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WorryFree Promise

Hardiness
Water Resilience
Compactness
Disease Resistance
Insect Resistance
Deer Resistance

Special Features

Kid/Pet Friendly
Attracts Wildlife
Low Maintenance
Great for Small Spaces

Stellar Nova™ Dogwood

Botanical Name

Cornus elwinortonii 'Rutstar' (PP 37,068)

Plant Type

Tree

Zone
Zones 6 - 8, down to -10° F Find Your Zone
Light Needs
Full Sun
Mature Size

Height 10 - 15'

Spread 10 - 12'

Plant size illustration

Description

The Stellar Nova™ Dogwood is a true landscape workhorse that pairs ethereal beauty with rugged reliability. In late spring, it transforms into a luminous centerpiece covered in massive, "glowing" white blooms. Beyond its stunning looks, it is a worry-free choice for gardeners, boasting exceptional resistance to disease and heat-proof foliage that won't curl or scorch, ensuring lush, dark green beauty all summer long.

Plant Care

Water

Once planted, water deeply 2–3 times per week to keep the root ball and surrounding soil consistently moist. Then transition to once a week, ensuring a thorough soak that reaches 4–6 inches deep. Once the root system is mature, supplemental watering is typically only needed during extended dry periods or severe summer heat.

Fertilizer

Young Plants: Wait until the second year after planting to begin a regular schedule, as newly planted dogwoods are sensitive and can be killed by heavy fertilization. Established trees: apply a balanced fertilizer in early Spring as buds begin to swell.

Pruning

Minimal Pruning. It naturally maintains a refined, small tree shape, typically only requiring the removal of crossing branches after it finishes blooming.

Seasons of Interest

Produces massive, bright-white floral bracts that "glow" in the sun. These bloom later than traditional dogwoods, typically peaking around Memorial Day.

A "workhorse" with thick, dark green foliage that remains lush and healthy even in high heat. Unlike many other varieties, its leaves are resistant to curling or scorching during the summer.

The foliage transitions to a striking purplish-red or burgundy color. While it is a sterile hybrid with minimal fruit, some note a "pretty bright red fruit display" in certain conditions.

Tree reveals a graceful, upright, and sculptural branching structure that provides architectural interest in a dormant garden.

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