Cornus florida ‘Cherokee Sunset’ – A Four-Season Showstopper
Cornus florida ‘Cherokee Sunset’ is a small ornamental tree that earns its keep in every season. Its distinctive variegated foliage, edged in creamy white and often brushed with blush pink, brings light and colour to the garden from spring through autumn.
In late spring, the tree bursts into bloom with an abundance of large, rosy-pink bracts surrounding tiny true flowers. This floral display creates a soft, romantic haze across the branches and is a magnet for pollinators.
Throughout summer, the colourful leaves remain fresh and eye-catching, before transforming in autumn into a fiery palette of crimson, orange, and gold. Bright red berries follow, providing food for birds and extending the season of interest. Even in winter, the tree’s graceful, tiered branching pattern ensures it remains a striking feature in the garden.
Why Grow Cornus florida ‘Cherokee Sunset’?
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Eye-Catching Variegation – Green leaves with creamy-white edges, often flushed with pink.
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Spectacular Spring Flowers – Large pink bracts for a long-lasting display.
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Wildlife Friendly – Nectar for pollinators, berries for birds.
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Multi-Season Appeal – Spring flowers, summer foliage, autumn colour, winter form.
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Compact Growth – Ideal for smaller gardens or as a focal tree.
Planting & Care Guide
Position: Full sun to partial shade; best in a sheltered position.
Soil: Fertile, moist, well-drained soil, preferably neutral to slightly acidic.
Watering: Water regularly until established and during prolonged dry spells.
Feeding: Apply an ericaceous fertiliser in spring for healthy growth and vibrant leaves.
Pruning: Little needed – prune lightly after flowering if required.
Design & Planting Ideas
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Use as a specimen tree in lawns or small front gardens.
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Pair with azaleas, rhododendrons, or camellias for harmonious colour.
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Underplant with spring bulbs to extend the seasonal display.
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Ideal for cottage, woodland, or Japanese-inspired gardens.
Cornus florida ‘Cherokee Sunset’ is more than just a tree – it’s a year-round highlight. From the first flush of variegated leaves and spring blossom to its autumn blaze and elegant winter silhouette, it will bring beauty and interest to your garden in every season.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
