Cornus florida Cherokee Sunset

Red Flowering Dogwood

Botanical name: Cornus florida ‘Cherokee Sunset’

Overview
A colorful variegated flowering dogwood prized for its rose-pink spring bracts and striking gold-edged green foliage. Leaves emerge with creamy-yellow margins that brighten the canopy through summer, often developing pink tones in new growth. Fall brings red to burgundy color, followed by glossy red fruit. ‘Cherokee Sunset’ offers multi-season interest with bold foliage contrast.

Size



Width: 20–25 ft



Height: 20–25 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 5a–9b



Light



Partial shade preferred



Morning sun with afternoon shade ideal



Protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch



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



Variegated foliage provides strong season-long brightness



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

5–8

Sunlight

Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

Pink

Fall color

Orange, Red

Attracts

Butterflies

Soil

Acidic, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen

Shape

Horizontal Branching, Rounded, Upright

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No