smoketree (Cotinus coggygria)

First place champion purple smoketree in Grand Junction.

Species info:

Leaves: Rounded, simple leaves with smooth margins; veins are prominent and contrast with the leaf surface

Leaflets: N/A (simple leaves)

Leaf Surface: Smooth, with contrasting veins that create a textured, ornamental look

Bark: Gray and furrowed on the main trunk; begins to flake slightly with age

Flowers: Very distinctive, airy, plume-like flower clusters that resemble puffs of smoke; appear above the foliage and give the tree its name

Fruit: Fruit: Small, kidney-shaped, about ¼ inch in size

Botanical: Cotinus coggygria

Family: Anacardiaceae

Mature Height: Up to 15 feet

Canopy Spread: Up to 12 feet

Foliage Type: Deciduous

Tree Shape: Irregular and informal; often multi-stemmed but can be pruned into a small tree form

Flowers: Showy, plume-like clusters resembling clouds of smoke; color varies by cultivar (typically pink to reddish)

Fruit: Inconspicuous

Fall Color: Rich yellows, reds, and purple

Water Use: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established

Hardiness: Zones 4–6

Soil Preference: Tolerant of clay, alkaline, and well-drained soils

Wildlife Value: Provides some habitat value; flowers attract pollinators

Insects and Diseases: No major pest or disease issues reported

Notable Traits: Exceptionally ornamental due to its “smoky” flower clusters; used as an accent plant in landscapes; highly variable cultivars with purplish foliage and colorful plumes; related American species (Cotinus obovatus) is larger (up to 30 feet) and native to the southern U.S.

Planting recommendation:

Information sources:

• Michael Dirr, Manual of Woody Landscape Plants (University of Georgia, 1990)