Plant Profile: Cotinus coggygria

Cotinus coggygria, commonly known as the smoke tree, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that grows upright and spreads out, belonging to the cashew family. This plant thrives in full sunlight; when grown in the shade, its leaves tend to revert to green. It is adaptable to various soil types and pH levels, offering diverse visual interest throughout the seasons. Different cultivars exhibit a range of foliage colors, transforming into vibrant shades of orange and yellow during the fall.

The flowers of the smoke tree are striking, delicate, and airy, composed of numerous filaments that create a colorful cloud on the new growth of the season. Their hues typically range from smoky pink to light purplish-pink, varying by cultivar. In garden settings, this plant serves best as a prominent accent or a standalone specimen. It can be pruned back to ground level in late winter to encourage the growth of an informal hedge. Alternatively, if you prefer to maintain its shape without forming a hedge, you can trim it to 6 to 8 inches above the ground, although this will prevent flowering for that year. To ensure blooms, it is advisable to leave one-third of the old stems intact.

With a fibrous root system, the smoke tree is easy to transplant and exhibits drought tolerance, though it may be susceptible to damage from deer. While there are numerous cultivars available, some prioritize unique foliage colors at the expense of flower production.

**Quick Identification Tips:**
- Blooms from early to mid-summer, with male flowers being more visually striking.
- Produces a distinctive wispy appearance when in bloom.
- Fall foliage displays reddish-purple tones.
- A broken leaf in summer emits a radish-like scent.
- Prefers well-drained soil and full sun but is adaptable to a wide range of pH levels.
- Generally free from pests and diseases.