Monday, July 23, 2012

Wolf Eyes In the Garden: A Stalwart Small Tree


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A spectacular small tree to grow in any garden has to be 'Wolf Eyes' cornus kousa. I have been growing mine for more then five years and in all that time it has never disappointed me in any way. Even now when we have been so hot and natural rain has been scant the Wolf Eyes shines in my garden. This is a tough dogwood any way you slice it. For comparison I have so far this year lost two Cornus floridus and probably an immense black gum tree to the drought. But still Wolf Eyes hangs on and looks great.
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Do you notice the wavy appearance of the leaves? I think this may be one reason why this small tree is so tough. The coloring of the tree helps to cool down a hot garden while brightening a shade spot.
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Mine grows under two mature oak trees in a rear center bed. It gets a bit of sun in the spring and fall when the sun slants to the south but other than that it is in high shade. It is an excellent tree to grow....


in the garden....

Words and Photos Property of In the Garden Blog Team, In the Garden

12 comments:

  1. Wow, that is one beautiful tree. It does lighten up a area. Sure wish I had the room for one of these.

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  2. Pretty leaves on this tree! I should be on the look out for one as I have lots of room for such a beauty....

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  3. That is a pretty tree. Haven't you got any rain yet. We have a rainy day again, like the whole summer...

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  4. From tigers to wolves. You have the wildlife covered.
    That is very pretty. Love the leaves.

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  5. I really like this tree..the leaves are so unusual for a tree.

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  6. That is beautiful. There is a similar plant used as a hedge. Or maybe it is the one and the same?
    http://www.flowersforums.com/ruth/blog/

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  7. Hi Tina, yes it is lovely as any variegated plant is! Does it give nice flowers too? I just found a big tree with variegations like that, but i am not familiar with the name. In this link it is the 2nd photo:http://abagillon.blogspot.com/2012/07/work-turned-vacation.html

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  8. This is a beautiful dogwood--I love anything with variegated leaves. From the last picture, I would say the birds probably appreciate the shade it provides for their baths as well.

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  9. It is such an elegant little tree, I wish I had the room.

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  10. It is a pretty tree and it looks as though yours is in the perfect spot.

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  11. What a gorgeous Dogwood Tina. I like that it's tough too. I wonder if it would grow here?? Your gardens are so extensive & thoughtfully planned out that your tour is sure to be a success.

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