Cotinus coggyria 'Golden Spirit'

'Golden Spirit' Smokebush

Botanical name: Cotinus coggygria ‘Golden Spirit’ (syn. ‘Ancot’)

Overview
A brilliant golden-leaved smokebush prized for its bright chartreuse to golden-yellow foliage that lights up the landscape. In early to mid-summer, airy pinkish smoke-like plumes rise above the foliage, creating a soft contrast. Fall color shifts dramatically to orange, red, and coral tones, making it one of the most vibrant autumn performers among smokebush selections.

Size



Width: 6–8 ft



Height: 6–8 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 5a–8b



Light



Full sun to partial shade



Best foliage color develops in full sun; light afternoon shade helpful in very hot climates



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



Ideal as a bright focal point or color contrast shrub



Notes



Shape: Rounded, medium-sized shrub



Foliage may scorch in extreme heat without some protection



Excellent contrast when paired with purple-leaved varieties



Can be pruned in early spring to maintain size or encourage larger leaves



Strong specimen plant for mixed borders and foundation plantings

Plant type

Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

6-8'

Width

6-8'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Bloom time

Summer

Flower color

Peach

Leaf color

Asparagus, Jasmine

Fall color

Red

Soil

Clay, Loamy, Moist well-drained, Sandy

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Mass Planting, Specimen

Shape

Rounded

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No