Cherokee Brave Dogwood

Cherokee Brave Dogwood (Cornus florida 'Comco No. 1')

Cherokee Brave Dogwood (Cornus florida 'Comco No. 1') is a vibrant flowering dogwood cultivar valued for its rich red blooms, deep green foliage, and reliable cold hardiness. A standout among native dogwoods, it delivers showy seasonal displays while offering improved tolerance to pests and diseases compared to older varieties.

Distinctive Features

This cultivar is best known for its striking flowers, which emerge in early to mid-spring with deep reddish-pink bracts and white centers. The lush green leaves provide a dense summer canopy and turn a vivid reddish-purple in fall. Red berries appear in late summer, attracting songbirds and other wildlife. Cherokee Brave forms an upright, broadly rounded tree that typically matures to 15 to 25 feet tall and wide, offering structure and beauty throughout the year.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade; can tolerate full sun with sufficient moisture
• Soil: Moist, well-drained, acidic soil
• Water: Moderate; consistent moisture is preferred
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Bright spring blooms and fall foliage create strong seasonal interest
• Front Yard Specimen: Perfect size and shape for use as a standalone ornamental
• Woodland Edges: Naturally suited for filtered light and native landscapes
• Bird Gardens: Fruits attract cardinals, robins, and other birds
• Mixed Borders: Pairs well with evergreens, azaleas, and spring-blooming shrubs

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, especially during establishment and dry spells
• Pruning: Minimal pruning needed; shape in winter if desired
• Fertilizing: Use a slow-release, acidic fertilizer in early spring
• Mulching: Apply mulch to conserve moisture and insulate roots
• Protection: Offers some resistance to powdery mildew and anthracnose

Why Choose Cherokee Brave Dogwood?

• Rich Red Flowers: Deep pink-red blooms add color early in the season
• Improved Hardiness: Better cold tolerance than other flowering dogwoods
• Wildlife Friendly: Supports pollinators and birds with blooms and berries
• Ornamental Form: Rounded habit fits beautifully into residential landscapes
• Focal Point: Exceptional color and structure make it a standout garden feature

Cornus florida 'Comco No. 1' (Cherokee Brave Dogwood) is a resilient and colorful native tree that enhances any garden with its bold spring flowers, fall foliage, and valuable wildlife support.