The Smoke Tree, also known by its botanical name Cotinus coggygria, is a deciduous ornamental shrub known for its distinctive, smoky plumes and vibrant foliage.
Here are some key facts about the Smoke Tree:
Origins and Habitat: The Smoke Tree is native to a wide region, including southern Europe, central China, and the Himalayas. It thrives in rocky, dry soils and is commonly found in open woodlands and hillsides.
Appearance: The Smoke Tree can grow up to 15 feet tall and wide under ideal conditions. It is most recognized for its billowy, hair-like filaments that grow from the spent flower clusters, giving the plant a smoke-like appearance, especially from a distance.
Foliage: The leaves of the Smoke Tree are simple, round to oval, and can vary in color from green to purple, depending on the variety. In the fall, the foliage often turns to striking shades of yellow, orange, red, or purple.
Flowers and "Smoke": The tree produces small, yellowish flowers in the spring. After the flowers fade, long stalks with fluffy, hair-like structures (the "smoke") emerge, creating a smoky haze around the plant that can last for several weeks.
Varieties: There are several cultivars of the Smoke Tree, with 'Royal Purple' being one of the most popular due to its deep purple leaves and pinkish-purple smoke. 'Golden Spirit' is another variety, known for its golden-yellow leaves.
Care and Maintenance: Smoke Trees prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. They are drought-tolerant once established and require minimal maintenance. Pruning is optional but can be done to shape the tree or maintain a desired size.
Uses: Due to its unique appearance and vibrant foliage, the Smoke Tree is often used in landscape design as a focal point, in borders, or as part of a mixed shrubbery.
Hardiness: The Smoke Tree is quite hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures; it's generally suited for USDA hardiness zones 4 through 8.
Wildlife Attraction: While the tree's flowers are not significantly showy, they can attract bees and other pollinators to the garden.
Toxicity: The Smoke Tree is considered non-toxic, but like many plants, its parts should not be ingested as they can cause discomfort or allergic reactions in some individuals and pets.
The Smoke Tree's unique aesthetic and low-maintenance nature make it a valued addition to many gardens and landscapes.
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