Cornus florida 'Cherokee Brave'
cherokee brave dogwood
Overview
Cornus florida 'Cherokee Brave' is a red-bracted flowering dogwood, growing 120–240 inches (300–600 cm) tall and wide with the characteristic horizontal layered branching of the species. Red to deep pink bracts 2–3 inches (5–7 cm) surround tiny yellow-green true flowers in the center — the bracts are modified leaves, not true petals. Distinguished from C. florida 'Cherokee Chief' (an older red-bracted cultivar) by improved resistance to dogwood anthracnose (Discula destructiva) and powdery mildew. Native to eastern North America. Dark green ovate leaves 3–5 inches (7–13 cm). Red-purple fall foliage. Glossy red berries 0.5 inch (12 mm) in fall, consumed by birds. The horizontal layered branching pattern is visible on bare branches in winter. Dogwood anthracnose has caused significant mortality in native C. florida populations since the 1980s — while 'Cherokee Brave' has improved resistance, it is not immune. Reduce stress by planting in partial shade with adequate moisture and air circulation. Acidic to slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5–6.5). Zones 5–9. Non-toxic. Shallow root system — avoid deep cultivation around the base. Dogwood borer attacks stressed trees through bark wounds. Growth rate is moderate — 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) per year. Blooms on old wood.
Native Range
The species C. florida is native to eastern North America, from southern Ontario and Michigan south to Florida and eastern Texas. Found as an understory tree in deciduous forests.Suggested Uses
Grown as a specimen or understory tree in zones 5–9, spaced 120–180 inches (300–450 cm) apart. Partial shade (mimics native habitat). Acidic soil. Non-toxic. Native. Improved disease resistance over older red-bracted cultivars.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height10' - 20'
Width/Spread10' - 20'
Reaches mature size in approximately 10 years
Bloom Information
Mid to late spring (April–May), lasting 2–3 weeks. Red to deep pink bracts surround tiny yellow-green true flowers. Blooms on old wood. Red berries follow in fall.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
Red to deep pink bracts (not true petals)Foliage Description
Dark green, ovateGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Partial shade — mimics native understory habitat. Acidic soil pH 5.5–6.5. Keep soil evenly moist — drought stress increases disease susceptibility. Good air circulation. Improved anthracnose resistance compared to 'Cherokee Chief' but not immune. Shallow roots. Non-toxic. Zones 5–9.Pruning
Prune dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late spring after flowering. Minimal pruning needed — the horizontal layered form develops without intervention. Avoid bark wounds, which attract dogwood borer.Pruning Schedule
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summer