Scarlet Fire® Dogwood Tree

Scarlet Fire® is the trade name for Rutgers’ pink-bracted kousa dogwood cultivar ‘Rutpink’, a selection documented by [Rutgers University](https://www.researchwithrutgers.org/en/publications/rutgers-scarlet-fire-dogwood-cornus-kousa-rutpink-2/). It pairs a dark-pink to fuchsia spring display with a rounded tree form and red fruit. ## Landscape Use and Seasonal Interest Use this flowering dogwood as a specimen where its late-spring color can be seen from a patio or window. Its deep pink bracts appear around the end of May and into early June, followed by rounded red fruit and dark green foliage with purple tones in young growth. ## Size and Siting Allow about 20–25 feet of height and 15–20 feet of spread. Full sun to partial shade suits this cultivar; Oregon State recommends at least four hours of direct sun for best performance. Plant in moist, acidic, well-drained soil. ## Soil and Water Water consistently while the tree establishes. Oregon State reports that established Scarlet Fire tolerates drought, and Arbor Day Foundation also lists heat tolerance. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5–8. ## Maintenance Leave room for the mature canopy and keep the trunk area clear of weeds and excess mulch. Remove dead or damaged branches as needed, and water during prolonged dry spells while the tree is young. [Oregon State University’s profile](https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/cornus-kousa-scarlet-fire) covers size, soil, sun, drought tolerance, and patent details; [Arbor Day Foundation’s cultivar listing](https://shop.arborday.org/treeguide/625) confirms the bloom timing, zones, and mature size.