Cotinus coggygria 'Royal Purple': Deep Purple Foliage Smoke Tree

For dramatic, dark foliage, Cotinus coggygria 'Royal Purple' is a top choice. This shrub or small tree (10–15 ft.) boasts stunning dark red-purple leaves that turn a vivid scarlet in autumn. After flowering, it produces the characteristic plume-like seed clusters that create a long-lasting, smoky haze at branch tips.

Culture & Care

Like the species, 'Royal Purple' is remarkably adaptable: it grows best in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun to part shade, yet tolerates alkaline soils, clay, dry rocky ground, and drought. Minimal pruning maintains a healthy framework; coppicing produces larger, even more intensely colored foliage (but fewer flowers).

Potential Problems

Powdery mildew and Verticillium wilt can occur. Good air circulation and drainage help prevent both.

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