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Description
Cotinus Coggygria Candy Floss, also known as Smoke Bush, is a deciduous shrub that is native to southern Europe and central China. It is popular for its fluffy, pinkish-purple plumes that resemble cotton candy. This shrub grows up to 10 feet tall and 12 feet wide, making it perfect for large gardens or as a focal point in smaller landscapes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Cotinus |
Appearance
The Cotinus Coggygria Candy Floss has a round, bushy shape with multiple stems arising from the base. Its leaves are typically green but transform to shades of yellow, orange, and red in the fall. The shrub’s most notable feature is its fluffy, pinkish-purple plumes that emerge in early summer and last until fall. These plumes are made up of tiny, hair-like filaments that surround numerous small, inconspicuous flowers.
Care Guide
When it comes to caring for the Cotinus Coggygria Candy Floss, it is important to keep the following factors in mind:
- Water: This plant prefers well-drained soil and will require regular watering during the first growing season. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and can withstand periods of dryness.
- Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: This shrub is adaptable to a range of soil types, but prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0-6.5.
- Sunlight: Cotinus Coggygria Candy Floss prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This shrub is hardy in zones 5-8, and can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Cotinus Coggygria Candy Floss is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the shrub.
Habitat
The Cotinus Coggygria Candy Floss is native to southern Europe and central China, but can now be found in many parts of the world. It is commonly grown in gardens and parks for its showy, pinkish-purple plumes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cotinus Coggygria Candy Floss be grown in containers?
A: While this plant can be grown in containers, it is not recommended as it prefers well-drained soil and can grow quite large.
Q: How often should I prune my Cotinus Coggygria Candy Floss?
A: Prune this shrub in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged wood. You can also prune it to shape or to control its size, but avoid pruning it too heavily as this can reduce flowering.
Q: Can Cotinus Coggygria Candy Floss be used as a hedge?
A: While this shrub can be used as a hedge, it may not be the best choice as it can grow quite large and may require frequent pruning to maintain its shape.
Q: Is Cotinus Coggygria Candy Floss toxic to pets?
A: This plant is not toxic to pets.
Related Plants
- Cotinus coggygria ‘Royal Purple’
- Cotinus coggygria ‘Golden Spirit’
- Cotinus obovatus
- Cotinus ‘Grace’
References
- “Cotinus Coggygria.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j440.
- “Smokebush.” The Spruce. Accessed August 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/smokebush-plant-profile-3269704.
- “Cotinus Coggygria ‘Candy Floss’.” Plant Lust. Accessed August 2021. https://plantlust.com/plants/cotinus-coggygria-candy-floss/.
