Cotinus obovatus

American Smoketree

Botanical name: Cotinus obovatus

Overview
A native American smoketree prized for its massive summer flower plumes and spectacular fall color. Large, rounded blue-green leaves create a bold texture through summer, followed by airy pinkish-tan smoke-like panicles in early summer. In autumn, foliage turns brilliant shades of orange, red, scarlet, and purple, often among the most intense fall displays of any small tree. Mature plants develop attractive bark and a strong architectural presence.

Size



Width: 20–30 ft



Height: 20–30 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 4a–8b



Light



Full sun



Best flowering and fall color occur in full sun



Soil



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



Tolerates slightly alkaline to neutral pH



Avoid poorly drained sites



Attracts



Pollinators (flowers)



Suitable Conditions



Performs best in moderate climates



Drought tolerant once established



Excellent choice for native landscapes and larger spaces



Notes



Shape: Upright oval to rounded small tree or large multi-stem shrub



Larger leaves and stronger fall color than C. coggygria



Native to the southeastern United States



Excellent specimen tree for lawns, parks, and naturalized areas



Minimal pruning required; prune only for structure or shaping

Plant type

Deciduous Tree

Height

20-30'

Width

20-30'

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Sun

Bloom time

Early Summer

Flower color

Yellow

Fall color

Orange, Yellow

Soil

Clay, Loamy, Moist well-drained, Sandy

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Mass Planting, Specimen

Shape

Oval/Rounded, Upright

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

Yes