Cherokee Brave Dogwood

Yes, Cherokee Brave Dogwood (Cornus florida 'Cherokee Brave') is native to North America. It is a cultivated variety of the native flowering dogwood, Cornus florida, which is commonly found in the eastern United States, particularly in woodlands and along forest edges. As a native species, Cherokee Brave Dogwood is well-adapted to the climate and soil conditions of its native range, making it an excellent choice for gardeners looking to incorporate native plants into their landscapes. Its ability to thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 5-9 makes it a versatile tree for a wide range of environments.

Being a native plant, Cherokee Brave Dogwood also supports local ecosystems by attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies with its vibrant spring blooms. In addition, the small red berries it produces in late summer are a valuable food source for birds and other wildlife. Its native status not only makes it a resilient and low-maintenance choice but also helps promote biodiversity and sustainability in the landscape. By planting Cherokee Brave Dogwood, gardeners can enjoy both its stunning beauty and the ecological benefits it brings to North American gardens.

Cherokee Brave Dogwood Trees are not considered deer-resistant, as deer are known to browse on their tender leaves, stems, and flowers, especially during the growing season when other food sources may be limited. While dogwoods are not the first choice for deer, they can still suffer damage in areas with high deer populations. Deer may eat the young shoots and foliage, which can stunt the growth of the tree and affect its ability to produce its signature red-pink blooms. If you live in a region with frequent deer activity, it’s a good idea to take preventive measures, such as using deer repellents or installing protective fencing around the tree.

Although Cherokee Brave Dogwood Trees are not deer-resistant, they bring significant beauty and wildlife benefits to the landscape. Their vibrant spring flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, while their red berries in late summer provide a valuable food source for birds. To protect your dogwood from deer while still enjoying its ornamental and ecological benefits, consider planting deer-resistant companion plants nearby or using physical barriers to deter browsing. With proper care and protection, your Cherokee Brave Dogwood can thrive and continue to enhance your landscape with its multi-season appeal.

Yes, birds are attracted to and do eat the berries of Cherokee Brave Dogwood Trees. In late summer and early fall, the tree produces small red berries that serve as an important food source for a variety of bird species, including robins, cardinals, and cedar waxwings. These berries are not only nutritious for birds but also help to sustain local wildlife during times when other food sources might be less available. Planting a Cherokee Brave Dogwood in your garden can create a wildlife-friendly environment, offering both beauty and ecological benefits as it supports bird populations.

In addition to attracting birds, the berries of the Cherokee Brave Dogwood add seasonal interest to the landscape, providing a pop of color after the tree’s vibrant spring blooms have faded. The combination of stunning red berries, beautiful fall foliage, and its role in feeding birds makes this dogwood a multi-seasonal asset to any garden. By incorporating Cherokee Brave Dogwood into your landscape, you’ll enjoy not only its ornamental value but also the satisfaction of providing a habitat that attracts and supports local wildlife, particularly birds.

Cherokee Brave Dogwood Trees grow at a moderate rate, typically adding 12 to 24 inches of growth per year under optimal conditions. While not a fast-growing tree, their steady growth allows them to develop a strong root system and a well-shaped, rounded canopy over time. The tree can reach a mature height of 15 to 30 feet with a similar spread, making it a perfect choice for both smaller and larger landscapes. Its moderate growth rate ensures that the tree will steadily fill its space while still allowing you to enjoy its stunning red-pink blooms, lush green foliage, and attractive branching structure within a few growing seasons.

To encourage faster, healthier growth, plant your Cherokee Brave Dogwood in well-drained soil with access to full sun or partial shade, and ensure it receives consistent watering, especially during the first few years of establishment. Adding organic matter like compost to the soil can also boost growth by improving nutrient levels. While the tree's growth is moderate, its long-lasting beauty—from its spring blossoms to its vibrant fall foliage—makes Cherokee Brave Dogwood a worthwhile investment for a garden that offers multi-season appeal and benefits to local wildlife, including birds and pollinators.

Our trees and shrub heights are measured from the top of the root ball to the top of the plant. We do not include the root system in our measurements. You can be assured that if we sell a tree at 4 to 5 feet high that after planting the tree will be 4 to 5 feet tall after planting.

You might see our sizes listed as 4 to 5 feet tall. Simply put, trees and shrubs grow. We are always pruning our plants to promote better branching and fuller canopies. This ensures you receive a plant that has been properly pruned to ensure health and vitality. Doing this can often change the height by 6 to 8 inches. By grading trees into 1-foot increments it assures you that you get what you’re paying for. Oftentimes our trees are sold above the height we specify but we never ship a plant that does not make the minimum height we specify.