1 / 3Key characteristics
- Classification
- Flowering dogwood
- Height
- 15 to 25 feet
- Width
- 15 to 25 feet
- Flower color
- Deep rose-red to ruby-red bracts
- Foliage color
- Dark green, turning red to purple in fall
- Bloom time
- Mid to late spring
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 5 to 8
Trees
Cornus florida 'Cherokee Chief'
Cherokee Chief Flowering Dogwood
Cornus florida 'Cherokee Chief' is a deciduous flowering dogwood known for its deep rose-red to ruby-red spring display. What appear to be four large flower petals are actually notched bracts surrounding clusters of tiny yellow-green flowers. Dark green, oval leaves fill the branches after flowering and provide a leafy summer canopy before developing rich red to purplish tones in fall. Clusters of glossy red fruit can follow the flowers, providing additional seasonal interest and food for birds.
Works well in
- Woodland Gardens
- Foundation Plantings
- Under Trees
- Pollinator Gardens
- Cottage Gardens
Companion plants
Rhododendron · Mountain laurel · Oakleaf hydrangea · Hellebore · Foamflower · Solomon's seal · Wild ginger
Design tip
Give 'Cherokee Chief' enough room for its branching structure to remain visible rather than crowding it between larger trees. A low layer of shade-tolerant shrubs and groundcovers beneath the canopy emphasizes its graceful form while preserving clear views of the spring flowers.