Smoke Tree (Cotinus coggygria)

Smoke Tree – Ethereal Pink Plumes in Summer

Cotinus coggygria, the Smoke Tree or Smokebush, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to southern Europe and central China. It is named for its spectacular, airy, pinkish-purple inflorescences that cover the plant in early summer, resembling clouds of smoke. The rounded, blue-green leaves turn brilliant orange-red in fall. It thrives in full sun, well-drained soil, and is drought-tolerant once established. Many cultivars offer purple foliage or larger plumes.

Taxonomic Details