Smokebush (Cotinus coggygria)

Sun Needs:

• Full sun for best color and flowering.
• Tolerates light shade but may reduce vibrancy and bloom.

Bloom Time:

• Late spring to early summer
• Wispy, smoky flower clusters persist into summer
• Flowers are small, but the hairs on the spent blooms create the “smoke” effect

Size:

Height: 10 to 15 feet (some cultivars can be smaller or larger)
Width: 10 to 15 feet

Attributes:

• Unique, smoke-like flower plumes
• Bold foliage in green, purple, or burgundy
• Brilliant fall color
• Drought-tolerant once established
• Can be grown as a shrub or small tree
• Excellent focal point or specimen plant

Care Tips:

• Prefers well-drained soil; avoid overly wet conditions
• Water regularly during establishment
• Prune in late winter or early spring to shape or rejuvenate
• Hard pruning encourages vigorous new growth and larger leaves (but fewer flowers)
• Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Pest Watch:

• Generally pest- and disease-resistant
• Occasionally affected by verticillium wilt or rust