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Aboretum

Royal Purple Smoke Tree (Cotinus coggygria 'Royal Purple')

"Deep burgundy foliage and smoky summer blooms make Royal Purple Smoke Tree a dramatic focal point in every season."

Take a Moment: Notice how the rich purple leaves seem to glow in sunlight. In summer, airy pink flower plumes rise above the foliage, giving the tree its signature smoky appearance.

Why We Love This Tree

Royal Purple transforms the familiar Smoke Tree into a bold statement piece. Its dark foliage creates striking contrast throughout the growing season before turning brilliant shades of scarlet and crimson in autumn.

Its vibrant colors remind us that nature can be every bit as artistic as a painter's palette.

 

 

Royal Purple Smoke Tree in summer

Royal Purple Smoke Tree in Summer

 
 

 

Meet the Tree

'Royal Purple' is one of the most popular cultivated forms of Smoke Tree, selected for its rich burgundy foliage and exceptional fall color. Like the species, it develops airy flower clusters that create the appearance of drifting smoke above the canopy.

Its compact size makes it ideal as a specimen tree in gardens and arboretums.

Ecological Benefits

Royal Purple Smoke Tree provides nectar for pollinators, seasonal shelter for birds, and supports beneficial insects while thriving in dry, sunny landscapes with minimal maintenance.

Did You Know?


Royal Purple received the prestigious Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society for its outstanding ornamental performance.

Quick Facts

Native: Cultivar of a species native to southern Europe & central Asia

Type: Deciduous Tree

Size: 10 to 15 ft tall × 10 to 15 ft wide

Sun: Full Sun

Water: Low to Moderate

Growth Rate: Medium

Flowers: Pink smoky plumes in early summer

Fall Color: Scarlet to crimson

Botanical Profile

Family: Anacardiaceae

Common Names: Royal Purple Smoke Tree

Genus Meaning: Cotinus is the classical Greek name for a related shrub.

Species Meaning: coggygria comes from the Greek name for the species.

How to Recognize It

Look for these distinctive characteristics:

  • Deep burgundy foliage
  • Airy pink flower plumes
  • Rounded crown
  • Smooth gray bark
  • Brilliant scarlet fall color
  • Multi-stemmed growth habit

Growing Conditions

Light: Full sun

Soil: Well-drained soil

Moisture: Low to moderate

Hardiness: USDA Zones 4 to 8

Tolerance: Heat, drought, and poor soils