Cotinus or Smoke Bush

Cotinus are deciduous shrubs more commonly known as the Smoke Bush. They are grown for their broad green or purple leaves which take on a beautiful orange colour in the Autumn. Cotinus bear plume like panicles of small fruits which appear in late summer together with small flowers producing a 'smoke like' appearance.

Where to Site Your Cotinus

Cotinus are perfect for a shrub border and are particularly effective during the autumn when planted as a specimen shrub. With the dramatic foliage that some varieties offer they can really add a new presence to the once green flower border.

How to Grow and Look After you Cotinus

They are fully hardy and prefer a fertile, well-drained soil in full or partial shade.

To prune, cut back in early Spring to remove misplaced or crossing shoots.

Add a fertiliser in spring, normally best option would be a nitrogen based to help fuel the new growth.