Scarlet Fire® Japanese Dogwood

Cornus kousa 'Rutpink'

Nature Hills Nursery

Reliable performance in USDA zones 5-8 with excellent heat and cold tolerance.
Produces massive 5-inch star-shaped fuchsia bracts that last for an impressive 6-8 weeks.
Features a moderate growth rate of 12-24 inches per year, reaching a mature height of up to 25 feet.
Bred for superior disease resistance against common dogwood issues like anthracnose and powdery mildew.

$114⁵⁵

Shipping calculated at checkout.

In Stock

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Plant Size

#1 Container 3-4 Feet #2 Container 3-4 Feet

Product variants

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Cold hardy, Disease resistant, Flowering, Fall Color/Interest, Ornamental Berries/Fruit, Thornless, Attracts pollinators, Drought resistant, Fragrant, Fast-growing, Evergreen, Groundcover, Self-pollinating
Hardiness Zone	5a to 8b
Sunlight	Full sun, Partial shade
Height	20-25 ft
Width	15-20 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Growth Rate	Moderate
Blooms In	Spring
Flower Color	Red, Pink
Suitable Space	Outdoors
Plant Name	Dogwood
Botanical Name	Cornus kousa 'Rutpink'
Species	kousa
Cultivar	Rutpink
Class	Cornales
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR, UT

Why Scarlet Fire® Japanese Dogwood?

A Breakthrough in Dogwood Breeding

If you are looking for a landscape centerpiece that truly stops traffic, the Scarlet Fire® Japanese Dogwood (Cornus kousa 'Rutpink') is the definitive choice. Developed by the experts at Rutgers University, this cultivar represents a significant leap in breeding, offering the deepest pink to fuchsia color ever seen in a Kousa variety. Unlike traditional white or pale pink dogwoods, Scarlet Fire® ignites the late spring garden with massive, 5-inch star-shaped blooms that look like glowing embers against the dark green canopy.

Key Features

Sensory Interest Through the Seasons

The visual journey begins in spring as fuchsia bracts emerge and persist for up to eight weeks—far longer than most flowering trees. As the blossoms fade, they transition into ornamental, strawberry-like fruits that add a unique texture to the layered, horizontal branches. During summer, the ovate leaves are a deep, lush green with subtle purple tinges on the new growth, providing excellent shade. When the air turns crisp in autumn, the tree undergoes a spectacular transformation, turning vibrant shades of neon red and orange. Even in the depths of winter, the mottled tan and gray exfoliating bark creates a sophisticated silhouette against the snow.

Landscape Uses

Versatile Landscape Utility

Because of its compact mature size of 20 to 25 feet, the Scarlet Fire® Dogwood is an ideal fit for modern yards and urban landscapes. It serves beautifully as a singular specimen tree near a patio where its layered architecture can be admired up close. It is equally at home in woodland gardens, mixed shrub borders, or used in small groupings to create a high-impact privacy screen. With its natural resistance to pests and diseases, this tree offers the classic beauty of a Dogwood without the maintenance headaches.

Explore More from Nature Hills

The Scarlet Fire® Japanese Dogwood joins our exceptional collection of dogwood trees and flowering trees, offering reliable spring color and distinctive form. For gardeners seeking more options, explore our complete selection of trees and fast growing trees to create the perfect landscape combination. Learn about proper planting techniques and seasonal maintenance in our comprehensive guide How Do You Care For Dogwood Trees?, and discover the fascinating background of these beloved species in History Of The Dogwood Tree.

Arrived very quickly in good shape & leaves popped out within a few days.

Again, I am very glad I spent the money on a potted tree. It arrived with no leaves and I was a bit concerned but then the leaves started popping out and even some tiny flower buds already at such a young age. We had a sudden hard frost this past week, so I kept it sheltered and didn't plant it out. Am doing so tomorrow, wish me luck.

Scarlet Fire showing flower buds that early is a great sign, the tree is already well established and putting its energy in the right places. Smart move keeping it sheltered through that hard frost before getting it in the ground. Good luck with the planting tomorrow, Elizabeth. Once it settles in, that fall color and the showy bracts in spring are going to be worth every bit of the wait.

Love my trees

I purchased 2 of these trees for my front yard about 3 years ago, they are still going strong and I am very happy with them. I do not have a green thumb, these are the only trees I have ever planted in my life that have survived long term. Thought to leave a review because I am looking to purchase another tree from Nature Hills since I had such a good experience with these 2.

Hi Shannon, Thank you so much for the lovely review! We love hearing that our plants are thriving and doing well many years after being planted. We think you definitely have some green in that thumb, give yourself some credit! The Scarlet Fire Japanese Dogwoods are so beauitful too! Thanks again for sharing - Nature Hills Customer Support

Healthy tree, well groomed for the garden!

It is a bit early to rate the performance of this cultivar as it has been in my garden for only a few months. This disease resistant cultivar was not available locally, so I took a chance and ordered it online. It appears to be grafted to a root stock. The plant was well maintained with the lower lateral branch buds clipped to form a nicely shaped specimen. The plant arrived in excellent condition and was well packed for transport. I look forward to seeing how the tree develops over time, but I am off to a good start. Also, the tree was fairly priced for the size and quality.

Hi Jay,

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughtful feedback! We're delighted to hear that your new tree arrived healthy and beautifully groomed, and that our careful packing met your expectations. Ordering a plant online can definitely feel like a bit of a leap of faith, so it’s wonderful to know your disease-resistant cultivar is off to such a promising start in your garden. The grafted rootstock is indeed a great feature for supporting vigorous growth and resilience.

As your tree grows, keep an eye on early signs of growth and continue to provide appropriate watering and fertilizing for optimal health. If you ever want detailed care tips tailored to your specific cultivar, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re always here to help you enjoy a thriving and beautiful garden!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Healthy tree, well groomed for the garden!

Hello Jay,

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughtful feedback! We're delighted to hear that your tree arrived in excellent condition and that our careful grooming and packing met your expectations. Taking a chance on purchasing a disease-resistant cultivar online can feel a bit uncertain, so it’s wonderful to know you feel off to a good start with this plant.

Since the tree was recently grafted onto rootstock, you might notice changes as it continues to establish and develop its structure over the coming seasons — a rewarding journey to watch in your garden. If you ever want tips for nurturing young grafted trees or advice on how to encourage full growth while maintaining the nice shape it has now, please don’t hesitate to reach out or explore our Plant Care Guides online. Staying proactive about watering, mulching, and monitoring for local pests can help ensure great health as well.

Your kind recognition of the fair pricing, size, and quality means a lot to us. We're rooting for your garden’s flourishing and look forward to supporting you as your beautiful new tree matures over time!

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

Plants arrived healthy

Planted as soon as arrived. Plants were packaged well. Looking forward to these dogwood!

Hi,

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We’re thrilled to hear that your plants arrived healthy and well-packaged. Dogwoods are such beautiful and rewarding trees to grow — once established, they offer stunning blossoms and vibrant seasonal color. Since you planted them right away, you’ve given them the best start!

As you care for your dogwoods, be sure to keep the soil consistently moist but well-drained, especially during their first year, to help their roots establish. Mulching around the base can also help retain moisture and protect against temperature swings. If you ever have any questions about care or disease prevention, feel free to reach out or check out our Plant Care Resources page for helpful tips.

We’re excited to see your dogwoods thrive and brighten your landscape!

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

Plants arrived healthy

Planted as soon as arrived. Plants were packaged well. Looking forward to these dogwood!

Hi Caleb,

Thank you so much for sharing your positive experience! We’re delighted to hear that your dogwood plants arrived healthy and well-packaged—it’s always our goal to make sure your plants travel safely and ready for the perfect planting day. Dogwoods are such beautiful trees, and with the proper care, we're confident they'll thrive in your garden.

For best results, be sure to plant them in well-draining soil with partial shade, especially during the hottest part of the day. If you ever need tips on care or seasonal maintenance for your dogwoods, feel free to reach out or check our Plant Care Resources on NatureHills.com—we’re always here to help you nurture your green space.

Looking forward to hearing about your garden’s progress!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Hi,

Thank you so much for your wonderful 5-star review! We truly appreciate your feedback and are delighted to hear about your positive experience with NatureHills.com. Your support means the world to us, and we're here anytime you need assistance or gardening advice.

If you have any questions about your plants or need tips for continued success in your garden, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We also invite you to explore our blog and plant care guides for helpful information tailored to your growing needs.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Hi,

Thank you so much for your wonderful 5-star rating! We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your positive experience with us. Your brief yet uplifting feedback encourages us to continue providing quality plants and exceptional service.

If you ever have questions or need tips to keep your garden thriving, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help you make your green space flourish.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

So excited for spring

Plant arrived well packaged and healthy. We can't wait to see what it looks like in the spring and summer next year.

Hi Trent,

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear that your plant arrived healthy and well-packaged—that means a lot to us. Spring and summer are such exciting times for growth and blooms, and we can’t wait for you to enjoy the vibrant beauty your new plant will bring.

If you ever have any questions about how to care for your plant or want tips to help it thrive next season, feel free to reach out. We also have a great collection of care guides on our website that you might find helpful as the seasons change.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

So excited for spring

Plant arrived well packaged and healthy. We can't wait to see what it looks like in the spring and summer next year.

Hi Trent,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful feedback! We’re thrilled to hear that your plant arrived in great condition and well packaged. Knowing you’re excited to watch it thrive through spring and summer next year truly brightens our day.

As the seasons change, continuing to care for your plant with proper watering, light, and fertilization will help it flourish beautifully. If you ever have questions or would like care tips tailored to your particular plant, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help every step of the way!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Frequently Asked Questions

What USDA hardiness zones is Scarlet Fire® Japanese Dogwood suitable for?

Scarlet Fire® Japanese Dogwood thrives in USDA zones 5-8, handling both cold winters and moderate heat. This makes it suitable for most temperate regions across the continental United States. Check your local zone to ensure it matches this range before planting.

What kind of soil does Scarlet Fire® Japanese Dogwood need (acidic, well-drained, etc.)?

Scarlet Fire® Japanese Dogwood thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil with consistent moisture. This adaptable tree tolerates various soil types but performs best with good drainage to prevent root issues. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter and shop at Nature Hills for this low-maintenance beauty.

Is Scarlet Fire® Dogwood disease-resistant and pest-resistant compared to other dogwoods?

Scarlet Fire® Dogwood offers natural resistance to the pests and diseases that commonly plague other dogwood varieties. This Kousa cultivar provides classic dogwood beauty without the typical maintenance headaches. Choose this variety for a low-maintenance landscape tree that delivers reliable performance.

How do I plant Scarlet Fire® Japanese Dogwood, including hole size and watering?

Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper than the container height. Plant at the same depth it was growing in the pot, backfill with native soil, and water deeply. Water regularly the first year until established.

What is the shipping size of Scarlet Fire® Dogwood trees (e.g., 2-4 ft)?

Scarlet Fire® Dogwood trees typically ship as young specimens around 2-4 feet tall in containers. These compact starter trees establish quickly and will reach their mature height of 20-25 feet within several years. Check current availability and sizing options at naturehills.com.

Are there any restricted states where Scarlet Fire® Dogwood cannot be shipped?

Scarlet Fire® Japanese Dogwood has no known shipping restrictions and adapts well to most regions. This hardy Cornus kousa cultivar thrives in USDA zones 5-8 with excellent disease resistance. Check your specific state's plant import regulations or contact your local extension office for any regional guidelines.

What is the flowering time and duration for Scarlet Fire® Dogwood (e.g., late spring, 6-8 weeks)?

Scarlet Fire® Dogwood blooms in late spring with flowers persisting for up to 8 weeks. The massive 5-inch fuchsia bracts provide exceptionally long-lasting color compared to most flowering trees. Plant where you can enjoy the extended display from a patio or window.

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

Scarlet Fire® Japanese Dogwood

Cornus kousa 'Rutpink'

Why Scarlet Fire® Japanese Dogwood?

A Breakthrough in Dogwood Breeding

Key Features

Sensory Interest Through the Seasons

Landscape Uses

Versatile Landscape Utility

Explore More from Nature Hills

Where to Plant

Watering Requirements

Pruning Tips

Fertilizer Needs

Shipping Rates

Frequently Asked Questions

What USDA hardiness zones is Scarlet Fire® Japanese Dogwood suitable for?

What kind of soil does Scarlet Fire® Japanese Dogwood need (acidic, well-drained, etc.)?

Is Scarlet Fire® Dogwood disease-resistant and pest-resistant compared to other dogwoods?

How do I plant Scarlet Fire® Japanese Dogwood, including hole size and watering?

What is the shipping size of Scarlet Fire® Dogwood trees (e.g., 2-4 ft)?

Are there any restricted states where Scarlet Fire® Dogwood cannot be shipped?

What is the flowering time and duration for Scarlet Fire® Dogwood (e.g., late spring, 6-8 weeks)?

Choose options

Scarlet Fire® Japanese Dogwood

Cornus kousa 'Rutpink'

Specifications

Description

Why Scarlet Fire® Japanese Dogwood?

A Breakthrough in Dogwood Breeding

Key Features

Sensory Interest Through the Seasons

Landscape Uses

Versatile Landscape Utility

Explore More from Nature Hills

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Watering Requirements

Pruning Tips

Fertilizer Needs

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Find on Page

Frequently Asked Questions

What USDA hardiness zones is Scarlet Fire® Japanese Dogwood suitable for?

What kind of soil does Scarlet Fire® Japanese Dogwood need (acidic, well-drained, etc.)?

Is Scarlet Fire® Dogwood disease-resistant and pest-resistant compared to other dogwoods?

How do I plant Scarlet Fire® Japanese Dogwood, including hole size and watering?

What is the shipping size of Scarlet Fire® Dogwood trees (e.g., 2-4 ft)?

Are there any restricted states where Scarlet Fire® Dogwood cannot be shipped?

What is the flowering time and duration for Scarlet Fire® Dogwood (e.g., late spring, 6-8 weeks)?