ExploreTree

Smoke Tree

Cotinus coggygria Scop.

The Smoke Tree is a beautiful tree with fluffy, smoke-like flowers. It grows tall and provides shade on sunny days.

Habitat: Parks and gardens

Appearance

The Smoke Tree is a small, often multi-stemmed tree known for its airy, plume-like flower clusters that give it a smoky appearance, especially in summer. Its rounded leaves turn vibrant shades of orange, red, and purple in autumn, adding a dramatic splash of color.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderSapindalesFamilyAnacardiaceaeGenusCotinus

Smoke Tree

Interesting facts

Its scientific name hints at ancient Greek words, linking it to wild olive trees!

People once used this tree's wood to create a beautiful yellow dye for clothing!

Some varieties grow leaves so purple they look like they're from another planet!

The amazing 'smoke' isn't just flowers, but fuzzy hairs on the faded flower stalks!

Special abilities

Smoke Tree can produce fluffy, smoke-like flower plumes that help it spread seeds widely with the wind and attract tiny insects.

Smoke Tree has a deep root system that helps it find water in dry, rocky soils, allowing it to survive arid environments.

Smoke Tree boasts vibrant autumn leaf colors, which likely help it maximize nutrient reabsorption before shedding leaves for winter.

Measurements & details

Height: 3-7 m
Canopy Spread: 3-6 m
Is Edible: No
Trunk Diameter: 10-30 cm
Lifespan: 20-50 years
Fruit Type: Drupe
Growth Rate: Medium
Leaf Type: Deciduous

Ecological connections

pollinates

European honey bee

Apis mellifera

collects nectar and pollen from its small flowers.

eaten by

Smoke Tree Casebearer

Coleophora cotinella

larvae create distinctive cases while feeding on its leaves.

eaten by

Spiraea aphid

Aphis spiraecola

sucks sap from young shoots and leaf undersides.

Traits

Deciduous

Discover the magic of plants that shed all their leaves during a particular season, often putting on a spectacular show of fall colors first. They get ready for a fresh start!

Broadleaf Tree

Discover magnificent trees that have wide, flat leaves, unlike the needles of pine trees! These are often the trees that change colors beautifully in autumn.

Fragrant Flower

Discover flowers that release delightful scents into the air, enchanting our senses and attracting helpful insects. Take a moment to enjoy their sweet perfume!

Fall Color

Witness the breathtaking transformation as leaves change from green to brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold before they fall. It's a spectacular natural art show!