American Smoketree
cotinus obovatus
Also known as: ["Smokebush","Smoke Tree"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree known for its airy, smoke-like inflorescences and attractive foliage that turns brilliant shades in autumn.
Benefits & Perks
["seasonal color change","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus: | Cotinus |
| Botanical Name: | Cotinus obovatus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–34–38°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter. Tolerates poor soils but thrives with added compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy. Can be cut back to 6–12 inches above ground for dramatic foliage effect.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates more shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants to full sun gradually to prevent leaf scorch. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade. Indoors, place near a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; monitor for leaf burn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid frequent shallow watering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Mulch to retain moisture; avoid compacted soil; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8. Prefers temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates winter lows to -20°F (-29°C) and summer highs to 90°F (32°C).
Protect from frost in early spring; water deeply before cold snaps; avoid placing near heat sources indoors.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Test soil before fertilizing; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn; water after applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood 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
Warm (70–75°F), humid environment with indirect light. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with added perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; plants may take a full season to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting bottle, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches, heading back to shape, and removal of crossing or damaged stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or diseased wood. Heavy pruning can stimulate vibrant foliage color.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before bud break; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
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 fresh soil mix; inspect roots; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure. Incorporate sand or perlite for drainage if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch or wilting in excessive heat; leaf drop or stunted growth in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may drop or turn yellow in response to freezing temperatures, though the plant is generally cold-hardy.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter to insulate roots. Protect from harsh winds and avoid overwatering during cold spells.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop during extreme heat, especially if soil is dry.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade, increase watering frequency, and use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil pH; use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season (April to August). Avoid fertilizing in fall or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Cotinus obovatus. The leaves and berries are the most toxic components, but the plant is not considered highly toxic to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Cotinus obovatus can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The leaves and berries are the most likely parts to cause symptoms, though severe reactions are rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCotinus obovatus, commonly known as American Smoke Tree, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's leaves and berries are the primary toxic parts, though the toxicity is generally low and not life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Cotinus obovatus have fragrant flowers?
A: No, the flowers are not fragrant, but they create a striking visual effect.
Q: Is this plant suitable for cold climates?
A: It is moderately cold hardy and can tolerate USDA zones 4-8.
Q: How fast does Cotinus obovatus grow?
A: It has a moderate growth rate, typically gaining about 1-2 feet per year.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Anacardiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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