Smoke Tree
Cotinus coggygria
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Pl. 3AB2 — Cotinus coggygria
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IOverview
Overview
Smoke Tree (Cotinus coggygria) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to regions including Albania, Austria, Bulgaria, and parts of China and Europe. Known for its ornamental value due to the feathery plumes of flowers that resemble smoke, it also has edible leaves that can be used in various culinary applications. The plant thrives in well-drained soils with a pH between 7 and 7.5, preferring light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil types. It is hardy in zones 5-8 and reaches heights of up to 5 meters. Its distinctive feature includes the unique 'smoke' effect created by its flower clusters, which add a striking visual appeal to gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Smoke Tree?
Smoke Tree (Cotinus coggygria) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to regions including Albania, Austria, Bulgaria, and parts of China and Europe. Known for its ornamental value due to the feathery plumes of flowers that resemble smoke, it also has edible leaves that can be used in various culinary applications.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Smoke Tree (Cotinus coggygria) thrives in well-drained soils of light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) types with a pH between 7 and 7.5. It prefers dry to moist conditions and grows best in full sun or partial shade. Hardy in zones 5-8, this tree or shrub reaches up to 5 meters in height. For propagation, smoke trees can be grown from seeds or cuttings. SKIP
Light
7/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-8
Habit
Tree, Shrub
Mature size
5.0 m tall
Soil pH
7–7.5
Seasonal calendar
Northern hemisphere · UTC month is September
winterspringsummerautumnwinter
BloomJFMAMJJASOND
For first-time growers
How to grow Smoke Tree for the first time
8steps
Start with a Smoke Tree to add vibrant color and texture to your garden, focusing on basic care.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Smoke Tree sapling, well-draining soil, and a container if planting in a pot.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or early fall when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 7 and 7.5, and prepare a container that is at least 10 liters (2.6 gallons) for a sapling.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the young sapling into your prepared container or garden bed, ensuring it has enough space to grow.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress or pests.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and regular watering during dry spells, especially in its first year. Prune lightly after flowering.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the Smoke Tree to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. This can be done after flowering.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight, and neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The Smoke Tree's leaves are edible and can be consumed fresh or dried. They are typically prepared raw in salads or used as a garnish due to their mild flavor. SKIP
Other uses:Weaving materialDyeEssential OilTanninLumberFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 30 native
Europe11 regions
native (11)AlbaniaAustriaBulgariaFranceGreeceHungaryItalyRomaniaRussiaSwitzerlandUkraine
Asia7 regions
native (7)ChinaIranKazakhstanNepalPakistanTurkeyTurkmenistan
Broader regions
native:Lebanon-Syria, Transcaucasus, Turkey-in-Europe, West Himalaya, Yugoslavia, Czechoslovakia, East Himalaya
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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