Clump would be pruned to form multiple trunks, or possible "low branched" which would branch into multiple trunks something like 1'-2' above ground. At least this is my understanding of the terms.

Arktrees

"Quick and dirty" definitions:

standard - in this case, it's not standard as in normal, but it means on a single trunk. Usually this term is used to describe a plant, that typically is spreading or low-growing, that is grafted onto a tall rootstock trunk or trained to a tall (relatively) single-trunked specimen.

clump - a single plant with multiple trunks, or, a group of plants grown closely together so as to appear to be one plant.

Standard seems to derive from the presence of a single trunk, this pole-like part being the standard. Maybe at one time the term alluded to the trunk only and has since come to mean the entire specimen now. Both versions may also be in use at the same time.

Thank you so very much. I went driving around my neighborhood looking at dogwoods and now I understand. Two doors down they have a standard Kousa that is on one trunk. At the end of the street they have a clump Kousa that has many trunks that start very low. Both are beautiful trees. I can't decide what I like more. Thanks so much. I'm new to this and slowly learning. I would be lost without Gardenweb!

Both are beautiful trees. I can't decide what I like more.

==>>> that decision is as simple as whether you have the square footage for one or the other..

the presumption being.. that the tree form.. can be limbed up .. and can have a garden bed under it.. or a bench.. or whatever..

whereas the shrub form.. will basically fill the entire area ... as in .. i want to hide the garbage cans ...

your choice..

ken

I have several. One with multiple trunks suffered the most in our recent ice storm.
Mike