Description
Cotinus coggygria, commonly known as the smoke tree or smoke bush, is a deciduous shrub or small tree prized for its vibrant foliage and unique, smoky-looking flower plumes.
Key Characteristics:
Height/Spread: Typically 10–15 feet tall and wide.
Foliage: Oval-shaped leaves that emerge green or purple and often turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow in fall. Cultivars like ‘Royal Purple’ have deep burgundy leaves all season.
Flowers: Tiny yellow flowers in spring; the spent flower stalks become airy, pinkish or purplish panicles that resemble puffs of smoke—hence the name.
Light: Full sun for best color and flowering.
Soil: Well-drained soil; drought-tolerant once established.
Hardiness Zones: USDA zones 5–8.
Benefits and Uses:
Ornamental Appeal: Striking color and texture make it a focal point in gardens.
Low Maintenance: Adaptable and relatively pest-free.
Pruning Options: Can be pruned hard in late winter to maintain a shrub form with large leaves (but fewer flowers), or lightly pruned for a natural, airy shape with more flowers.
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