Cotinus coggygria

Cotinus coggygria is a striking deciduous shrub or small tree renowned for its dramatic foliage and unique, airy flower clusters resembling puffs of smoke, appearing from late spring to early summer. Depending on the variety, its leaves may range from rich green to deep purple, often turning vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold in autumn, offering multi-seasonal interest.

Best planted in full sun with well-draining soil, Cotinus coggygria suits contemporary, Mediterranean, and woodland garden styles. It tolerates dry conditions once established and benefits from occasional pruning to maintain a strong framework. Allow at least 2-3 metres of space when planting to accommodate its natural spread. At maturity, it typically reaches 3-5 metres in height and width, creating a bold and dynamic feature in the garden.

Trimming: Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain a strong framework and encourage fresh, vigorous growth. Hard pruning can be done to control size or promote larger foliage at the expense of flowering.

Fertilising: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to support healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilising, which can lead to overly lush, weak growth.

Watering: Water regularly during the establishment phase. Once established, Cotinus is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering during extended dry periods.