VENUS is a hybrid dogwood that brings together the best traits of three remarkable Cornus species, developed through careful breeding by Elwin R. Orton, Jr. as part of the Jersey Star program. Growing 14 to 18 feet tall and 18 to 24 feet wide, this deciduous tree thrives in zones 6 through 9, offering showy flowers in spring (April to May) alongside the deer resistance and pollinator appeal gardeners crave. Its hybrid vigor makes it a resilient choice for gardens where pure species dogwoods struggle.
Partial Sun
Moderate
6-9
216in H x 288in W
—
Low
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The pedigree behind VENUS sets it apart: a cross of Cornus kousa 'Chinensis', Cornus nuttalii 'Goldspot', and Cornus kousa 'Rosea' engineered to inherit the hardiness and disease resilience of multiple parent species. This tree handles moderate moisture and full sun to partial shade with low maintenance demands, while its showy spring flowers attract butterflies and other pollinators throughout the growing season. Deer leave it untouched, making it exceptionally valuable in landscapes where browsing pressure is relentless.
VENUS functions as an ornamental flowering tree, valued for its spring display and four-season garden structure. Its moderate size, low-maintenance growth habit, and tolerance for varied light conditions make it suitable for residential landscapes, woodland gardens, and mixed borders where a focal point tree is needed without demanding intensive care.
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“VENUS emerged from the Jersey Star breeding program developed by Elwin R. Orton, Jr., a systematic effort to create hybrid dogwoods that combine the ornamental strengths of multiple species while improving disease resistance. The cross draws from Cornus kousa 'Chinensis' (a Chinese kousa dogwood), Cornus nuttalii 'Goldspot' (Pacific dogwood with distinctive golden variegation), and Cornus kousa 'Rosea' (a pink-flowering kousa form). This carefully considered parentage was designed to overcome limitations found in native and single-species dogwoods, delivering a tree suited to modern garden conditions and more resistant to the environmental stresses that plague pure species in cultivation.”