Common Smoketree

Cotinus Coggygria

Image of smoketree
Whole Plant
Image of smoketree leaf
leaf

Jeremy Ayers, Agro / Hort 100G Spring 2002

The smoketree, botanical name Cotinus coggygria, is a member of the Anacardiaceae family. This small deciduous tree has a lifespan of about 20 years and grows best in sunny locations. There is little maintenance or pruning required for this plant. The common smoketree grows to 10 to 15 feet in height and has a 10 to 15 foot spread. The crown of this plant has a round shape to it is sometimes symmetrically round. The leaves on this tree have a bluish-green color to them and are about 2 to 4 inches in length. The color of the flower on the smoketree has a pink and creamy white color to them. The smoketree is native to southern Europe and Asia and was brought to North America when colonies were first established in America.