Everything about the Smoke Tree

Smoke Tree

Common Name: Smoke bush, smoke tree

Latin Name: Cotinus coggygria

Family: Anacardiaceae

Plant Time: -

Mature Size: 10-15 ft. tall

Sun Preference: Full sun

Soil Preference: Well-drained, loamy soil with Acidic, Neutral or Alkaline pH levels

Bloom Time: Summer, Spring

Flower Color: Pink, purple

Native Area: Europe, Asia

Toxicity: Toxic to humans

Growth Rate: -

Wildlife Value: -

Table of Contents

Welcome to the fascinating world of the Smoke Tree (Cotinus coggygria)! This unique and eye-catching plant is named for the fluffy, smoke-like plumes that cover its branches in late spring and summer. These cloud-like puffs give the tree a magical, almost otherworldly appearance, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes.

Popular Smoke Tree Varieties

  • Royal Purple – Known for its deep purple leaves and smoky pink plumes.
  • Golden Spirit – Features bright golden-green leaves that shift to orange and red in fall.
  • Grace – A hybrid with large, purple-red leaves and impressive “smoke” clouds.
Smoke Tree

Care

  • Water: The smoke tree is pretty drought-tolerant once it’s established. For younger plants, it’s important to keep it well-watered, but after that, let the soil dry out between waterings. Overwatering can be harmful, so keep it light!
  • Light: Smoke trees love basking in the sun. Give them a spot where they can get at least six hours of sunlight every day. More sun means brighter leaf colors, making the tree even more stunning.
  • Soil: These trees aren’t too picky about soil. They do best in well-drained soil, whether it’s sandy, loamy, or even a bit rocky. Just make sure water doesn’t stick around too long after rain.
  • Temperature and Humidity: Smoke trees prefer warm, dry climates. They thrive in zones where temperatures range from 65 to 85°F (18 to 29°C), but they can handle a bit of cold (41°F or 5°C). However, extremely cold conditions can damage the plant, so take precautions if you live in a chillier area.

Planting & Growing

Smoke trees are easy to grow and adapt to a variety of conditions. You can plant them in the spring or fall. Whether you start with seeds or a young tree, make sure to space them about 8 to 10 feet apart so they have plenty of room to grow. These trees can grow up to 15 feet tall, and they start showing off their smoky plumes after a few years.

Pruning

Pruning your smoke tree at the right time is key to keeping it looking awesome and growing strong. The best time to get those clippers out is in late winter or early spring, right before new growth kicks in.

  • Late Winter to Early Spring: Aim to prune around March, when the tree is still in its dormant phase and can handle the cutback without stress.
  • Check Your Climate: Depending on where you live, the timing may shift a bit. Just make sure the frost is over and avoid pruning during super cold spells.
  • Year-Round Touch-Ups: Feel free to trim off dead or damaged branches anytime to keep the tree healthy. It won’t harm the plant and will keep it looking its best.

For more detailed tips on pruning and shaping your smoke tree, check out our full guide below.

Common Pests

Smoke trees are generally pretty tough, but like most plants, they can attract a few pests:

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do smoke trees grow best?

Smoke trees grow best in full sun or light shade and can handle almost any soil. Just make sure the soil drains well for them to thrive.

Why is my smoke bush dying?

Wilting smoke trees might have a fungal disease called verticillium wilt, which is serious. It’s important to act early to prevent the tree from dying.

Can you plant a smoke tree next to a house?

Large smoke trees should be planted at least 10 feet away from buildings or other plants. Smaller varieties can be planted closer for a hedge effect.

What can I plant next to a smoke tree?

Great companion plants include viburnum, ninebark, ornamental grasses, and black-eyed Susan. These plants complement the smoke tree’s unique look.

Can you bonsai a smoke tree?

You can bonsai a smoke tree, but regular pruning is needed to maintain its shape. Be careful when wiring, as the bark is thin and delicate.

Planting calendar

We provide a planting scheduling tool for maximizing yield! Find your USDA zone by your city or zipcode!