Cherokee Princess Dogwood

Cherokee Princess Dogwood (Cornus florida 'Cherokee Princess')

Cherokee Princess Dogwood (Cornus florida 'Cherokee Princess') is a refined native cultivar prized for its extra-large white bracts, early blooming habit, and graceful branching. This standout selection of Eastern Flowering Dogwood brings brilliant spring interest, rich fall color, and seasonal wildlife value to gardens throughout the eastern United States.

Distinctive Features

'Cherokee Princess' produces oversized white flower bracts that bloom slightly earlier than most dogwoods, often appearing before the leaves fully emerge. These blooms blanket the branches in early to mid-spring, creating a striking display against the still-bare landscape. Deep green summer foliage turns reddish-purple in fall, followed by glossy red fruit that attracts birds and other wildlife. The tree matures at 15 to 25 feet tall with a broad, rounded canopy and strong symmetrical structure.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade; tolerates full sun with adequate moisture
• Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil
• Water: Moderate; appreciates consistent moisture
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Showy white blooms and classic form provide standout spring presence
• Front Yard Accent: Neat shape and ornamental value make it ideal for entry plantings
• Woodland Garden: Native habitat and dappled shade preference suit naturalistic settings
• Wildlife Garden: Berries support birds and pollinators
• Understory Tree: Pairs beautifully with azaleas, ferns, and hostas beneath taller canopy trees

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Maintain consistent moisture, especially during establishment and hot spells
• Pruning: Minimal; prune in winter to remove dead or crossing branches
• Fertilizing: Feed in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants
• Mulching: Mulch to retain moisture and insulate the root zone
• Protection: Somewhat resistant to powdery mildew and anthracnose, especially in well-ventilated locations

Why Choose Cherokee Princess Dogwood?

• Large White Flowers: Oversized bracts provide one of the most impressive spring displays among dogwoods
• Graceful Form: Strong branching and tidy silhouette suit formal or informal gardens
• Seasonal Color: Offers striking spring flowers, vibrant fall foliage, and ornamental fruit
• Native Adaptability: Naturally fits into Eastern woodland and shade garden settings
• Focal Point: Elegant and dependable highlight for entryways, borders, or understory plantings

Cornus florida 'Cherokee Princess' blends early spring beauty with a classic native form, offering gardeners a dependable focal point tree that excels in both ornamental performance and ecological value.