The strong horizontal branching in older trees is an especially attractive feature. Some kousa dogwoods are more resistant than flowering dogwood to dogwood anthracnose, powdery mildew and spot anthracnose. This species is more resistant to borers than flowering dogwood. Kousa dogwood is best used as a border accent, near a deck or patio, or as a specimen. It works well at the edge of woods where it will receive some sun.
Ideal soil is moist, fertile, loamy and well-drained.
This tree may be more adaptable to soil conditions than flowering dogwood. It does not tolerate drought, and should be deeply irrigated during hot, dry spells. It prefers shade in the afternoon in the South, but can grow in full sun. Plant in an area large enough for good root expansion. Provide mulch under the canopy to prevent mechanical damage and preserve soil moisture.