Cornus florida 'Cherokee Chief'

Cherokee Chief Dogwood

Botanical name: Cornus florida ‘Cherokee Chief’

Overview
A vibrant red-flowering flowering dogwood known for its deep rose-red to crimson bracts that appear in mid-spring before or as foliage emerges. The bold bloom color provides striking contrast in the landscape. Summer foliage is rich green, turning reddish-purple to burgundy in fall, followed by glossy red fruit. ‘Cherokee Chief’ delivers strong seasonal color and classic layered branching structure.

Size



Width: 20–25 ft



Height: 20–25 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 5a–9b



Light



Partial shade preferred



Morning sun with afternoon shade ideal



Tolerates full sun in cooler climates with adequate moisture



Soil



Well-drained soils; prefers moist, organic-rich loam



Slightly acidic pH preferred



Avoid compacted or poorly drained sites



Attracts



Pollinators (spring flowers)



Birds (red fall fruit)



Suitable Conditions



Performs best in cool to moderate climates



Excellent understory or woodland-edge tree



Allow space for horizontal branching and natural canopy spread



Notes



Shape: Horizontal, layered branching with rounded canopy



One of the most popular red-flowering dogwood selections



Excellent specimen tree for lawns, woodland gardens, and mixed borders



Minimal pruning required; prune only for structure or deadwood

Plant type

Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

15'

Width

15-30'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

Pink

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Red

Attracts

Birds

Soil

Acidic, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen

Shape

Horizontal Branching, Rounded, Upright

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No