Smoke Tree
cotinus coggygria
Also known as: ["European Smoke Tree","Smokebush"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree known for its airy, smoke-like inflorescences and attractive foliage that often turns brilliant shades of red, orange, or purple in autumn.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","seasonal color change","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus: | Cotinus |
| Botanical Name: | Cotinus coggygria |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter. Tolerates poor soils but thrives with added compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy. Can be cut back hard to rejuvenate or lightly pruned for shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates light shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually to prevent leaf scorch. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade. Indoors, place near a south-facing window with bright light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–8. Prefers temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts but may suffer in extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from harsh winds; monitor for signs of stress.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm roots; water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; use organic options like compost for slow release.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; plants may take a full growing season to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, heat mat.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to encourage bushiness; selective removal of old wood.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or diseased wood. Heavy pruning can stimulate vibrant new growth.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, loppers, pruning saw, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before bud break; remove dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts just above buds.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Young plants may need repotting annually.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; inspect roots; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water until it drains from the bottom, avoiding wetting foliage. Early morning or late evening watering is ideal to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in excessive heat; leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold below -20°F (-29°C).
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt, turn brown, or drop. Young or newly planted specimens are more vulnerable to frost damage.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; protect with burlap screens in extreme cold; choose a sheltered planting site.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop. Growth may slow, and flowering may be reduced.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering during heatwaves; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil nutrient levels; apply fertilizer at recommended rates; water after application; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply a light dose monthly during growing season if needed. Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to liver toxicity from pyrrolizidine alkaloids found in Cotinus coggygria. Ingestion can cause significant health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Cotinus coggygria by dogs can lead to gastrointestinal upset and potential liver toxicity due to pyrrolizidine alkaloids.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCotinus coggygria contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids which can cause liver damage upon ingestion. The effects are cumulative and may not manifest immediately.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I prune a Smoke Tree?
A: Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or crowded branches and maintain shape.
Q: Why are the leaves turning yellow?
A: Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiency.
Q: Does Cotinus coggygria attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers and seeds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Anacardiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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