All Species > Cotinus coggygria

European Smoketree, AKA Venetian Sumach

Broadleaf shrub with dramatic foliage and interesting bark; challenging to miniaturize.

Seasonal Care Guide

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  • Watering: Minimal watering needed; ensure soil is slightly moist but never soggy.
  • Pruning: Structural pruning can begin if weather is mild.
  • Bud Shoot Management: Monitor for swelling buds as sign of dormancy ending.
  • Pests Disease: Check for overwintering pests on bark and in soil.
  • Winter Protection: Maintain protection from hard frost if in pot.
  • Wound Management: Seal pruning wounds promptly to prevent infection.
  • Development: Plan training work for spring onset.

Placement & Seasonal Notes

  • Placement: Full sun
  • Notes: Full sun helps retain compact internodes.
  • Winter: Wood is brittle when cold; avoid manipulation.
  • Summer: May sulk in extended heat - provide shade if stressed.

Leaf Traits

  • Persistence: Deciduous
  • Form: Broadleaf

Watering & Fertilization

  • Watering: Moderate
  • Notes: Avoid waterlogging, but don't let dry out.
  • Season: Spring → Autumn
  • Fertilization: Balanced
  • Notes: Avoid nitrogen overload; encourages coarse growth.

Training Techniques

  • Wiring: Spring or Autumn
  • Notes: Best trained via clip-and-grow due to fragility.
  • Pruning: Structural in spring, maintenance summer
  • Notes: Can defoliate after major prune; plan ahead.
  • Repotting: Every 2-3 years
  • Notes: Use fast-draining mix; dislikes wet roots.

Propagation

  • Method: Cuttings or seed
  • Notes: Softwood cuttings difficult; layering more reliable.

Zone 8b Considerations

Protect roots from late freezes