Cotinus coggygria Velvet Cloak

Purple Smoketree

Botanical name: Cotinus coggygria ‘Velvet Cloak’

Overview
A rich-colored smokebush prized for its deep velvety purple foliage that holds color well through summer. In early to mid-summer, airy pinkish-purple plumes rise above the leaves, creating the signature smoky effect. Fall foliage intensifies to brilliant scarlet, orange, and crimson, making it one of the strongest autumn performers among smokebush selections.

Size



Width: 10–15 ft



Height: 10–15 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 5a–8b



Light



Full sun



Best foliage color and flowering occur in full sun



Soil



Well-drained soils; adaptable to clay, loam, or sandy soils



Tolerates slightly alkaline to neutral pH



Avoid poorly drained sites



Attracts



Pollinators (flowers)



Suitable Conditions



Performs best in moderate climates



Tolerates heat and drought once established



Allow space for broad, open branching



Notes



Shape: Large, rounded shrub or small multi-stem tree



Deeper foliage tone than many older purple cultivars



Excellent fall color display



Can be pruned hard in early spring for larger leaves and denser growth



Strong specimen plant or dramatic backdrop shrub

Plant type

Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

10-15'

Width

10-15'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun

Bloom time

Summer

Leaf color

Purple

Attracts

Butterflies

Soil

Alkaline, Clay, Moist well-drained, Sandy

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Mass Planting, Specimen

Shape

Rounded

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No