Contents
Description
Cotinus Obovatus, commonly known as American smoke tree or large-leafed smoke tree, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States and can grow up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide. The tree gets its name from the smoke-like appearance of its pinkish-gray hairs that cover the seed heads in late summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Cotinus |
Appearance
Cotinus Obovatus has large, obovate leaves that can grow up to 10 inches long and 6 inches wide. The leaves have a glossy, dark green color in the summer and turn shades of yellow, orange, and red in the fall. The tree produces small, yellow-green flowers in the spring that are not particularly showy. The true beauty of the tree comes in late summer when the seed heads appear. The seed heads are clusters of tiny, pinkish-gray hairs that give the tree a smoke-like appearance.
Care Guide
Cotinus Obovatus is a relatively low-maintenance tree that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips:
Water: The tree prefers well-drained soil but can tolerate dry conditions once established. Water deeply once a week during the growing season.
Fertilization: Fertilize in the early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The tree prefers slightly acidic soil but can tolerate a wide range of soil types.
Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Cotinus Obovatus is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cotinus Obovatus is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and verticillium wilt. To prevent these diseases, make sure the tree has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Cotinus Obovatus is native to the southeastern United States and can be found in various habitats, including woodlands, savannas, and along streams and rivers. The tree prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate a variety of growing conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cotinus Obovatus a good tree for a small garden?
A: Yes, Cotinus Obovatus is a good tree for a small garden. It can be pruned to maintain its size and shape, and it has a relatively small footprint compared to other trees.
Q: Can Cotinus Obovatus grow in containers?
A: Cotinus Obovatus can grow in containers, but it will require regular watering and fertilization. Make sure the container has good drainage and is large enough to accommodate the tree’s root system.
Q: How often should I prune Cotinus Obovatus?
A: Cotinus Obovatus does not require regular pruning, but you can prune it to maintain its size and shape. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Q: Can Cotinus Obovatus be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Cotinus Obovatus can be propagated from hardwood cuttings taken in late fall or early winter. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in well-drained soil. Keep the soil moist and the cuttings in a sheltered location until new growth appears.
Related Plants
- Cotinus Coggygria
- Cotinus Grace
- Cotinus Royal Purple
References
- “Cotinus Obovatus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276361&isprofile=0&cv=5.
- “Cotinus Obovatus.” Plant Database, University of Connecticut, www.hort.uconn.edu/plants/c/cotobo/cotobo1.html.
- “Cotinus Obovatus.” Southern Living Plants, www.southernlivingplants.com/plant/cotinus-obovatus.
