smoke tree
Cotinus coggygria
Royal Purple
About this plant
Cotinus coggygria, commonly called the smoke tree, is a deciduous shrub or small tree known for its striking, fluffy, smoke-like flower clusters and vibrant fall leaf colors ranging from yellow to deep purple. It is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes for its unique appearance and colorful foliage.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Cotinus
- Family
- Anacardiaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Sapindales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Southern Europe, Central China, Himalayas
- Distribution
- Native to southern Europe, central China, and the Himalayas; widely cultivated in temperate regions worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, Southwest-facing, West-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 7–14 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- -29 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 15-25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 5-8
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam or sandy soil
Watering. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Once established, the smoke tree is drought tolerant and requires less frequent watering. Avoid waterlogging the soil.
Fertilizing. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can reduce leaf color intensity.
The smoke tree is fairly tough and prefers full sun with well-draining soil. It tolerates drought once established but may suffer if overwatered. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages healthy growth. Watch for occasional pests like aphids.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- late spring to early summer
Fluffy, smoke-like flower clusters; colorful foliage in summer and vibrant fall colors; rounded shrub form.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Generally considered non-toxic, but sap may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Keep away from children and pets to avoid any risk.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Moderate
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Moderate
Cotinus coggygria, also known as the smoke tree, can produce pollen that may cause mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, especially during its flowering period. People with pollen allergies should avoid close contact during this time. The plant's sap may also cause skin irritation in some cases, so wearing gloves when handling is recommended.
Common problems
Overwatering can cause root rot, while too little sun may lead to poor leaf color and sparse growth. Aphids and fungal diseases can sometimes affect the plant if conditions are too humid or crowded.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its unique flowers and colorful foliage. It adds visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
Notes
Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead wood and shape the plant. It can be grown as a multi-stemmed shrub or trained into a small tree form. Avoid planting in heavy clay soils that retain water.