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Cotinus coggygria seeds - Smoke bush

Cotinus coggygria
Smoke Bush, European Smoke Tree, Venetian Sumach, Dyer's Sumach

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A shrub prized for its autumnal foliage and airy flowering. In summer, its cloud-like inflorescences in tea-rose hues give it a unique appearance. Of medium stature, it adapts to dry soils, even calcareous ones. Hardy and undemanding Cotinus dislikes excessive moisture in winter. The seeds should be sown in spring after three months of cold stratification, in well-drained, light soil.  
Flower size
25 cm
Height at maturity
3.50 m
Exposure
Sun
Germination time (days)
90 days
Sowing method
Direct sowing, Sowing under cover
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Sowing period January to December
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Flowering time June to July
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Description

Cotinus coggygria, or Smoke bush, seeds should be sown after a period of cold exposure. This fast-growing shrub has a bushy habit, with airy summer flowering and beautiful autumn colours. This hardy and very robust species only dislikes overly clayey and wet soils. It is an excellent plant for dry ground, maintaining a bushy appearance without requiring regular pruning. It can be planted as a standalone specimen, at the back of a flower bed, or even in a mixed hedge.

Cotinus coggygria, also known as Common Smoke bush, belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. It grows naturally on rocky hillsides in southern Europe and Asia. Adapted to dry summers, it thrives in poor, well-drained soils. This hardy bush, with moderate growth, reaches a height of 3 to 4 metres with a similar spread. Its dense, branching habit gives it a balanced and slightly spreading silhouette. In spring, the bush is covered with small cream flowers grouped in large panicles. After flowering in summer, these panicles transform into feathery, tea-pink fruits, giving the bush its characteristic appearance, as if wearing "wigs". Its deciduous, 6 to 8 cm diameter and rounded leaves appear in April. This fairly light green foliage turns beautiful shades of yellow, orange, and red in autumn before falling.

Cotinus coggygria adapts to many situations, as long as it has well-drained soil. Once established, it tolerates heat and summer drought perfectly. It naturally fits into mixed hedges, as a background plant in flower beds, or as a standalone feature, where its airy inflorescences add a nice touch. It pairs particularly well with bushes like coronillas and shrub roses, as well as with late-flowering perennials like asters or bee balms. It can also be surrounded by light ornamental grasses, which will highlight its airy habit and soft tones in summer.

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Cotinus, smoke tree: planting, pruning and care
Family sheet
by Virginie T. 10 min.
Cotinus, smoke tree: planting, pruning and care
Read article

Cotinus coggygria seeds - Smoke bush in pictures

Cotinus coggygria seeds - Smoke bush (Flowering) Flowering
Cotinus coggygria seeds - Smoke bush (Plant habit) Plant habit

Flowering

Flower colour pink
Flowering time June to July
Inflorescence Panicle
Flower size 25 cm

Foliage

Foliage persistence Deciduous
Foliage colour light green

Plant habit

Height at maturity 3.50 m
Spread at maturity 3.50 m
Growth rate fast

Botanical data

Genus

Cotinus

Species

coggygria

Family

Anacardiaceae

Other common names

Smoke Bush, European Smoke Tree, Venetian Sumach, Dyer's Sumach

Origin

Southern Europe

Product reference23990

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Planting and care

The seeds of Cotinus coggygria have a hard shell that can hinder germination. Thermal scarification is recommended: soak the seeds in warm water (not boiling, 60–70°C) for 24 hours. This method helps weaken the outer shell, thus facilitating germination.

After scarification, the seeds require a period of stratification to break their dormancy. They should be placed in a moist substrate, such as a mixture of sand and turf. This cold stratification at 4°C lasts for two to three months. This step replicates natural seasonal conditions and optimises germination.

Once the stratification period is complete, the seeds are ready for sowing. Sow them at a depth of about 6 mm in a well-drained substrate. Lightly firm the soil to ensure good contact between the seeds and the substrate, then water gently to maintain consistent moisture.

Place the sowings in a spot with indirect light and maintain consistent soil moisture, without overwatering. The ideal ambient temperature ranges between 18°C and 24°C. The average germination period for Cotinus coggygria seeds varies between 3 and 12 months. Patience is key, along with regular monitoring of the substrate's moisture.

When the young plants reach a height of 10 to 15 cm and develop several pairs of leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots with a light potting mix.

Gradual hardening outdoors is recommended before their final planting. After a few weeks outside, sheltered from strong winds and extreme temperatures, they can be planted in the ground in well-drained, sunny soil. Moderate watering and regular weeding will encourage healthy growth.

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Sowing period

Sowing period January to December
Sowing method Direct sowing, Sowing under cover
Germination time (days) 90 days

Intended location

Suitable for Meadow
Type of use Back of border, Free-standing, Hedge
Hardiness Hardy down to -20°C (USDA zone 6b) Show map
Ease of cultivation Amateur
Exposure Sun
Soil pH Neutral, Calcareous
Soil moisture Dry soil, Very well-drained

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