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Cotinus coggygria 'Royal Purple' – supplied in a 7.5-litre container, approximately 60 cm tall
Plant Highlights: Rich purple foliage throughout the growing season • Airy, smoke-like flower plumes in summer • Outstanding autumn colour • Excellent as a specimen shrub or focal point
Cotinus coggygria 'Royal Purple', commonly known as the Smoke Bush, is a deciduous shrub prized for its dramatic deep purple foliage and distinctive airy flower plumes that create a soft, smoky effect in summer. Its bold foliage colour provides striking contrast in mixed borders and remains attractive throughout the growing season before developing vibrant autumn tones.
With its naturally rounded habit, 'Royal Purple' works equally well as a specimen shrub, within mixed planting schemes or as an informal hedge. The combination of richly coloured leaves and unusual flower panicles gives it interest across several seasons.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Cotinus coggygria 'Royal Purple' |
| Common Name | Smoke Bush |
| Plant Type | Deciduous shrub |
| Supplied Form | 7.5-litre container |
| Supplied Height | Approximately 60 cm |
| Foliage | Deep purple throughout the growing season |
| Flowers | Small flowers followed by smoky pink-purple plumes |
| Flowering Season | Summer |
| Position | Full sun or partial shade |
| Soil | Fertile, well-drained soil |
| Hardiness | RHS H5 (−15°C to −10°C). |
| Mature Height | 4 – 8 m (can be pruned smaller) |
| Mature Spread | 4 – 8 m |
Plant in full sun for the richest foliage colour, although it will also grow in partial shade. It thrives in fertile, well-drained soil and, once established, tolerates periods of dry weather better than many shrubs.
Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish a strong root system. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring if required and mulch around the base to help retain soil moisture while keeping the crown clear.
Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and remove any dead or crossing branches. Established plants can be pruned more firmly if a larger display of vigorous foliage is desired, although this may reduce flowering for that season.
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