American Smoke Tree
Cotinus obovatus
Description:
A small tree with many favorable attributes that does well in tough urban conditions. The blue-green leaves of summer turn to riot of yellow, orange, red, and reddish purple in the fall. After the flowers are spent in mid- summer, they produce little hairs that give the tree its “smokey” appearance. Older specimens develop scaly bark that is attractive in winter.
Power Line Approved: Yes
Min. street tree planting width: 5 feet
Mature Height: 25 feet
Mature Spread: 20 feet
Tree Shape: Rounded
Where to Plant:
Works well in smaller planting strips under wires or in a small yard space.
Leaves:
Blue green foliage turns into a tapestry of yellow, orange, red, and reddish purple in the fall.
Flowers:
Small yellow green flower clusters develop hairs after they fade which give the tree a “smokey” appearance.
Fruit:
None
Preferred Site Conditions:
Full sun. Can handle tough urban conditions and poor soil but not standing water. Drought tolerant once established.
Potential Problems:
No serious insect or disease problems. Some susceptibility to verticillium wilt.
Minimum Planting Distances:
- 15 feet from house or building
- 3 ½ feet back from the face of the curb
- 5 feet from underground utility lines
- 10 feet from power poles
- 7 ½ feet from driveways (10 feet recommended)
- 20 feet from street lights and other existing trees
- 30 feet from street intersections