On my own property I find that the white variegated kousas are far more difficult to site right than other colors. I have a Snowboy that has struggled since I got it- I finally found it enough light yet still in a sheltered enough position and it has begun thriving. My Wolf Eyes was the same way- they want really good light but not direct sun. Maybe after they are established- I do see the odd kousa planted in full sun around here and wonder how they did it, but these are always solid green leaved varieties.

Remember to look at Cornus alternifolia, too- the yellow variegated varieties have been, in my experience anyway, much easier to grow. My Golden Shadows is one gorgeous tree and it's layered growth habit will knock your socks off.

Here is a variegated kousa dogwood that I saw today.

It's in full sun. Shame I didn't catch it in bloom.

Did pick up today and planted, in it's shady location, a small "Summer Fun".

Very nice. This is one of the better cultivars for vigor and sun tolerance.

I wonder how has been your experience with Summer Fun. I have a part sun location (in zone 7a new jersey) and i am trying to choose between Golden Shadows (yellow variegated) and summer fun. any suggestions from other?