Texas Tech University

Smoketree

Cotinus coggygria
Deciduous-Shrubs / Deciduous-Trees

Smoketree - which can be grown as a small tree or large shrub - is notable for its sometimes colorful foliage and its unique, showy flowers.  In late Summer and early Fall, the finely-textured blooms can make a specimen appear as if the entire plant is wrapped in a cloud of cotton candy.

(Detailed plant information can be found at the bottom of the page.)
Cotinus coggygria

Cotinus coggygria Photo Gallery



Cotinus coggygria Plant Information

Classification  
   
Scientific Name: Cotinus coggygria
Common Name: smoketree
Family: Anacardiaceae
Suggested Uses: shrub border, mass plantings, cutflowers
   
Characteristics  
   
Plant Form: usually small multi-trunked tree or large shrub
Height: 10 - 15 feet tall
Spread: 10 - 15 feet wide
Foliage: alternate, simple, oval to obovate, and deciduous

looks like ping pong paddle

bluish-green to purple in color
Flower: yellowish panicle; very showy when they have pubescence (late Summer to early Fall) growing on peduncle and pedicles
Bloom Period: early Summer - early Fall
Fruit: small drupe in Fall
   
Environment  
   
USDA Zone: zones 5 - 8

TTU Plant Resources