Flowering Dogwood

About this plant

Cornus florida 'Cherokee Brave' is a standout selection of our native Flowering Dogwood, cherished for its spectacular display of large, rosy-pink to deep red bracts that blanket the branches in early spring before the leaves emerge. These vibrant 'flowers' are a beacon of seasonal change, signaling the end of winter and the arrival of warmer days. Beyond its breathtaking spring bloom, 'Cherokee Brave' offers year-round interest. Its elegant, tiered branching structure provides architectural appeal, while its rich green summer foliage transforms into brilliant shades of deep red and purple in the fall, often accompanied by glossy red berries that persist into winter, providing sustenance for local wildlife. Ideal as a specimen tree in a lawn, a striking accent in a woodland garden, or an understory tree in a larger landscape, 'Cherokee Brave' brings unparalleled beauty and ecological value to any premium garden setting. Its moderate size makes it suitable for a variety of spaces.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Plant in well-drained, acidic soil rich in organic matter. Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods and in its first few years. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. Prune only to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches after flowering.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.