American Smoketree

American smoketree, Cotinus obovatus, is a deciduous small tree or upright shrub native to the southern United States. Its summer flower clusters develop airy pink-to-purple hairs, followed by notable fall foliage color; the species is suited to a sunny, well-drained site. [NC State Extension’s plant profile](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cotinus-obovatus/common-name/american-smoketree/) describes its native habitat, flowers, seasonal color, and cultivation needs. ## Site and seasonal interest Use it as a specimen or accent, or in a small group at the back of a shrub border. NC State reports green to blue-green leaves, with yellow, orange, purple, and red fall color, and a USDA hardiness range of zones 3a–8b. The profile lists full sun and partial shade, and notes that well-drained soil is important; it grows in a range of soil textures, including clay and shallow rocky soils. ## Maintenance Avoid low-lying, persistently wet sites and overwatering. Water attentively during dry weather, since the extension profile notes that the plant uses appreciable water in dry conditions. Deer resistance is reported, while stressed trees can develop leaf spots, rust, or wilt.