Color:

Smokebush

Cotinus coggygria

Shrub

Smoky pink or purple plumes creating hazy effect. Unique texture. Also called smoke tree. Not true flowers but fuzzy flower stalks. Symbol of mystery. Dramatic and ethereal.

Bloom Season

Summer

Habitat

Temperate

Where to Buy

Find local florists carrying Smokebush

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Perfect For

Wedding

Care & Vase Life

Stays fresh for 7 to 14 days

when properly cared for

Cut branches when smoke-like panicles are fluffy

Smash woody stem ends for water uptake

Both flowers and purple foliage varieties are excellent cut material

Can be dried for preserved arrangements

Long-lasting - 10-14 days

Woody stems - split ends

Change water every 3-4 days

Can air dry

Fragrance Profile

No Scent

Smokebush has no fragrance

Safety Information

Toxic to Humans

Sap may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals

Fun Facts

The smoke effect comes from masses of fuzzy flower stalks after blooming

Related to cashews and mangoes - all in the Anacardiaceae family

Purple-leaved varieties turn brilliant orange-red in autumn

The wood yields a yellow dye used since ancient times

Origin & History

Native to Southern Europe to Central China

Native from southern Europe across to central China, smokebush has been cultivated since ancient times for its yellow dye and ornamental value. The fuzzy plumes that give it the smoke appearance develop after flowering. Modern purple-leaved varieties like Royal Purple have made it a landscape staple.