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Royal Purple Smoketree
Royal Purple Smoketree
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Cotinus coggygria ‘Royal Purple’
The Royal Purple Smoke Tree is a stunning ornamental tree or large shrub, prized for its deep burgundy foliage, dramatic "smoky" plumes, and year-round visual appeal. This drought-tolerant, low-maintenance tree thrives in various soil types and adds bold color and texture to landscapes. Whether used as a specimen tree, privacy screen, or in mixed borders, the Royal Purple Smoke Tree brings unique beauty and easy care to gardens of all sizes.
Royal Purple Smoke Tree
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Variety | Rooted |
| Botanical Name | Cotinus coggygria ‘Royal Purple’ |
| Common Names | Royal Purple Smoke Tree, Smoke Bush |
| Mature Height | 10-15 feet |
| Mature Width | 10-12 feet |
| Growth Rate | Moderate (1-2 feet per year) |
| Lifespan | 50+ years |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | 4-9 |
| Sun Preference | Full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight) |
| Soil Type | Well-drained, loamy, sandy, or rocky soil |
| Soil pH | Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.5) |
| Water Needs | Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established |
| Flowering Season | Late spring to early summer (May-July) |
| Flower Color | Smoky, feathery pink-purple plumes |
| Fall Foliage | Fiery shades of red, orange, and purple |
| Wildlife Attraction | Bees, butterflies, birds |
| Growth Habit | Multi-stemmed, rounded canopy |
| Self-Pollinating? | Yes |
| Landscape Uses | Specimen tree, privacy screen, mixed borders, drought-tolerant gardens |
| Maintenance Level | Low |
Environmental Benefits
🌿 Drought-Resistant & Water-Wise – Thrives in dry conditions, making it a top choice for low-water landscaping.
🐝 Pollinator-Friendly – Feathery plumes attract bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
🌱 Erosion Control & Soil Adaptability – Tolerates poor, rocky, or sandy soils, helping stabilize landscapes.
🍂 Multi-Season Beauty – Offers deep purple foliage in spring and summer, smoky pink blooms, and vibrant fall color.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unique smoky pink flower plumes add drama to landscapes | May need occasional pruning to maintain shape |
| Deep purple foliage provides striking contrast | Can spread aggressively if not maintained |
| Drought-tolerant and thrives in poor soils | Requires full sun for best color and flowering |
| Resistant to most pests and diseases | Flowers are not long-lasting, fading by mid-summer |
| Brilliant red, orange, and purple fall foliage | Not ideal for very wet or heavy clay soils |
Planting & Care Guide
- Spacing: Plant 8-12 feet apart for a natural look or closer for dense screening
- Soaking: Soak bare root in water for 6-12 hours before planting
- Planting Depth: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root system, ensuring roots are level with the soil surface
- Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and remove dead wood
- Fertilization: Not typically needed, but can be supplemented with a slow-release fertilizer in early spring
- Watering: Water regularly in the first year, then reduce once established
The Royal Purple Smoke Tree is a show-stopping choice for gardeners and landscapers seeking a bold, colorful focal point with minimal care requirements. Whether planted for privacy, ornamental interest, or as part of a drought-resistant garden, this versatile and resilient tree delivers year-round beauty and effortless charm.
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