Cornus florida 'Cherokee Princess'

Cherokee Princess Dogwood

Botanical name: Cornus florida ‘Cherokee Princess’

Overview
A dependable white-flowering flowering dogwood known for its large, bright white bracts and heavy spring bloom. Flowers appear in mid-spring along gracefully layered branches, creating a classic dogwood display. Rich green summer foliage turns deep red to burgundy in fall, followed by glossy red fruit. ‘Cherokee Princess’ is prized for its uniform habit and reliable flowering.

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 soil 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 widely planted white-flowering dogwood cultivars



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



Minimal pruning required; prune only for structure or deadwood

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

20-25'

Width

20-25'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Dark Green

Fall color

Orange, Red

Attracts

Birds

Soil

Acidic, Sandy well-drained

Shape

Horizontal Branching, Rounded, Upright

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No