How to Grow Purple Smoke
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Purple Smoke
Cotinus coggygria 'Purple Smoke'
shrubPurple Smoke is a deciduous ornamental shrub prized for its deep purple foliage and dramatic smoky pink flowering plumes that appear in summer. The foliage transforms to vibrant orange and red tones in fall, providing multi-season interest. This cultivar is a selected variety of smoke bush known for its superior color intensity and compact growth habit.
When should you plant Purple Smoke in your zone?
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Example Purple Smoke timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Purple Smoke
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Purple Smoke
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Purple Smoke dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-9, hardy to zone 4b
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Establishment (Year 1)
Spring through fallYoung shrub develops root system and initial branching structure. Purple foliage emerges as temperatures warm.
Water regularly to establish roots. Mulch around base. Do not prune heavily. Allow the plant to settle.
Vegetative Growth (Years 2-3)
Ongoing through growing seasonShrub develops fuller branching habit, reaching 8-10 feet tall and wide if unpruned. Deep purple leaves emerge in spring.
Prune in late winter to shape and maintain desired size. Remove any dead or crossing branches. Fertilize lightly in spring.
Flowering/Fruiting (Summer)
June to August, persisting into fallDistinctive feathery flower panicles develop, appearing smoky pink to burgundy above the purple foliage. Flowers mature into airy seed heads.
Do not deadhead if seed production is desired. Maintain adequate moisture without waterlogging. Enjoy the ornamental effect through fall.
Fall Color Transition
September to NovemberFoliage shifts from deep purple to brilliant orange, red, and burgundy tones. Seed heads become tan and papery, adding winter interest.
Minimal care needed. Enjoy the display. Begin planning for late-winter pruning if size management is desired.
Dormancy (Winter)
December to MarchShrub loses leaves completely. Branching structure becomes visible along with decorative tan seed heads remaining into winter.
Perform pruning in late February through early March before growth resumes. No watering needed in dormancy unless winter is very dry.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Inspect regularly; remove affected foliage; maintain plant vigor; insecticidal soap as needed for heavy infestations
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Prune out infested branches; horticultural oil spray in dormant season; encourage beneficial insects
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Increase humidity through misting; strong water spray to dislodge; miticide if severe
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Strong water spray; insecticidal soap; neem oil; encourage natural predators like ladybugs
Uses
Dried Floral Arrangements
CraftThe smoky flower panicles and seed heads dry beautifully and last for months in arrangements. Cut in mid to late summer for best results. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeFlowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. The shrub provides food, shelter, and nesting habitat for birds. [source]
Landscape Focal Point
HouseholdThe deep purple foliage and dramatic pink flower plumes make Purple Smoke an excellent specimen shrub for creating visual interest and drama in ornamental gardens. [source]
Smoke Production
CulinaryHistorically, smoke bush wood has been used to produce smoke for food smoking due to its aromatic properties, though this cultivar is primarily grown ornamentally. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalCotinus species have been used in traditional medicine in various cultures for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds, though modern research is limited. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
This is an ornamental shrub not harvested for consumption. Seed heads can be collected for dried arrangements in fall and winter. Cut branches can be used in fresh or dried floral arrangements.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The 'smoky' appearance of the flower panicles comes from the fluffy, hair-like filaments on the sterile flowers and developing seeds, creating a cloud-like effect that can persist for months.
- 🌱 Purple Smoke foliage can darken even further when grown in full sun and lean soil conditions—richer soil often produces lighter purple tones.
- 🌱 The shrub has been cultivated as an ornamental for over 300 years, originating in central and southern Europe and western Asia, and remains a favorite in contemporary garden design.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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