Cornus florida 'Cherokee Princess' (Flowering Dogwood)

Cornus florida 'Cherokee Princess' is an improved cultivar of flowering dogwood, a native, flowering tree species considered to be among the most spectacular flowering trees in United States at springtime. The 'Cherokee Princess' cultivar can be multi- or single-stemmed and typically grows to approximately 30' tall with horizontal branching out to a spread of about 35'. In spring, Cornus florida 'Cherokee Princess' is covered by a profusion of long-lasting white bracts that fill the tiered branches, putting on a beautiful floral display and attracting butterflies, beetles, and other pollinators. 

Later in the spring, flowers are followed by dense, attractive green foliage and, eventually, pollinated blooms are followed by bright red fruits in the summer which attract a number of bird species. In the fall months, these persistent red berries add further aesthetic appeal, pairing beautifully with bright autumnal shades of crimson and maroon. Cornus florida 'Cherokee Princess' grows best in part shade, and so may be best grown as an understory or forest margin tree in well drained soils, but can also be used as a specimen tree in less intensely sunny areas. Additionally, since flowering dogwoods can be sensitive to temperature swings, you can provide a 2-4" layer of mulch to help keep the roots cool and moist through hot, dry summers.