Bare Root Shade & Ornamental Trees
Cherokee Chief (Red) Pink Flowering Dogwood
Cornus florida rubra
Starting at$2.75
Available options
About this plant
Cherokee Chief is a red-pink flowering dogwood with a graceful, layered habit and strong ornamental appeal. This deciduous native tree adds spring color, summer foliage, red fall tones, and bright red fruit for seasonal interest.
- USDA hardiness5-9
- LightPart shade to full sun; afternoon shade is beneficial in hot climates.
- WaterWater regularly during establishment and during prolonged dry periods. Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
- SoilMoist, fertile, well-drained, organically enriched soil; slightly acidic to neutral soil is preferred.
- Mature height180–360 in.
- Mature spread180–300 in.
- Growth habitUpright, rounded, and layered
- Growth rateModerate
Landscape uses
Use as a specimen tree, woodland planting, understory tree, or accent near patios and lawns. Allow room for its broad, layered canopy.
Planting schedule
Plant bare-root trees in late winter or early spring while dormant, after the ground is workable. Container-grown trees can be planted in spring or fall.
How to plant
Choose a site with well-drained, organically enriched soil and protection from harsh afternoon sun. Dig a broad hole no deeper than the root system, spread the roots naturally, and keep the root flare at soil level. Backfill with native soil, water thoroughly, and apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch without touching the trunk.
Care guide
Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season, then provide supplemental water during drought. Maintain mulch over the root zone, replenish organic matter as needed, and avoid lawn fertilizer or mechanical injury near the trunk.
Pruning
Prune in late winter to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches and to maintain structure. Avoid unnecessary heavy pruning; sanitize tools when removing diseased wood.
Common problems
Potential problems include powdery mildew, leaf spot, anthracnose, cankers, scale, and dogwood borer. Good air circulation, well-drained soil, proper watering, and removal of damaged wood help maintain plant health.
Seasonal care
- Spring: Plant while dormant, water newly planted trees consistently, and enjoy the red-pink bracts. Refresh mulch while keeping it away from the trunk.
- Summer: Water during heat and drought, monitor foliage for spots or mildew, and protect the shallow root zone from competition and soil disturbance.
- Fall: Enjoy red fall foliage and fruit for birds. Water before the ground freezes if conditions are dry, and remove fallen leaves when disease has been present.
- Winter: Prune structural issues while the tree is dormant, protect the root zone with mulch, and avoid piling snow or deicing salt around the tree.
Frequently asked questions
How much sun does Cherokee Chief flowering dogwood need?
It grows in part shade to full sun, with afternoon shade helpful in hot climates.
When does Cherokee Chief flowering dogwood bloom?
It blooms in mid to late spring with red to pink floral bracts.
How large does Cherokee Chief flowering dogwood grow?
It typically reaches about 15 to 30 feet tall and 15 to 25 feet wide at maturity.
Is Cherokee Chief flowering dogwood deciduous?
Yes. It drops its leaves in fall after developing red to reddish-purple foliage color.
What is the best soil for flowering dogwood?
Use moist, fertile, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Slightly acidic to neutral soil is preferred.