If you’ve got a Kousa Dogwood (Japanese Flowering Dogwood) in your yard, you’ve probably noticed those funky-looking red fruits and wondered: “Can I actually eat those?” The short answer is yes! However, before you start snacking, there are a few things you need to know, because not every dogwood variety is kitchen-friendly.
It’s All About the Variety!
When it comes to dogwood berries, variety is everything. While the Kousa Dogwood (Cornus kousa) produces fruit that is perfectly safe for humans, you need to be careful with other types. Some dogwood species can be toxic, and certain parts of the plant can even be fatal to pets. Always double-check exactly which species you planted before you take a bite.
To get a good harvest, your dogwood needs to be happy. That means picking the perfect spot and keeping up with proper pruning. Growing those beautiful flowers and fruits takes a lot of energy! If the tree is stressed, it won’t produce much.
To keep your tree thriving, make sure you:
- Keep it well-watered (don’t let it dry out!)
- Plant it in a sunny spot
- Ensure the soil is rich in nutrients
How to Use the Fruit
At first glance, Kousa Dogwood fruits look a bit like oversized raspberries or lychees, usually growing to about an inch in diameter. In Asia, they’ve been enjoyed both raw and cooked for ages. However, the flavor is… unique. It’s a bit creamy and sweet, but the skin can be tough and bitter. I always recommend a small taste test first to see if it’s your cup of tea before you commit to a big recipe.
If you do like the taste, there’s plenty you can do with them! They make excellent jams and jellies, which are fantastic for filling cakes or topping thumbprint cookies. You can also toss them into a fresh fruit salad or even a summery green salad for a pop of color. Just remember to balance the flavors so the unique taste of the dogwood fruit really shines!
