smoke tree · Cotinus coggygria
Also known as: American smoke tree; Hungarian sumac; Indian sumac; purple fringe; scotino; smoke bush; Turkish sumac; Tyrolean sumac; Venetian sumach; Venus's sumach; wig tree; young fustic; Zante wood
Smoketree is known for its distinct, puff-like flower clusters and vibrant autumn foliage. This plant thrives in full to partial sun and requires well-drained soil, making it relatively low-maintenance and suited to a variety of garden settings. Special care points include pruning in late winter to maintain shape and encourage flowering. Moreover, smoketree is drought-tolerant once established, but it benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells. The care difficulty for smoketree is easy, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.
Smoketree boasts airy, plume-like flowers and vibrant foliage. Prune in late spring, post-flowering, to maintain shape and promote healthy growth. Remove dead or diseased wood first, then thin out overcrowded branches. Rejuvenation pruning, cutting stems back by one-third, enhances bushiness and bloom. Avoid heavy pruning in the dormant season to prevent shock. Regular maintenance promotes airflow and reduces disease, ensuring a lush, ornamental display.
