Smoke Bush

About this plant

Elevate your garden's aesthetic with the breathtaking Cotinus coggygria 'Royal Purple', a true showstopper from A Cut Above. Renowned for its intensely colored, velvety leaves that emerge a vibrant red and mature to a rich, glossy purple-black, this spectacular shrub commands attention throughout the growing season. Its striking foliage provides a sophisticated backdrop or a dramatic focal point in any landscape design. In summer, 'Royal Purple' truly lives up to its common name, producing airy, wispy flower clusters that resemble puffs of smoke hovering above the vibrant leaves. These unique inflorescences, often tinged with pink or purple, create an otherworldly effect, adding texture and intrigue to your outdoor space. Its bold color palette makes it an exceptional choice for contrasting with greens, silvers, and yellows. Beyond its stunning beauty, the 'Royal Purple' Smoke Bush is remarkably versatile and low-maintenance. It thrives in a variety of conditions and offers year-round appeal, with its architectural bare branches providing winter interest. A Cut Above recommends this plant for those seeking an impactful, easy-care specimen that delivers unparalleled visual drama.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Requires minimal pruning; shape in late winter or early spring if desired to maintain size or encourage larger leaves by coppicing. Water regularly during its first growing season to establish a strong root system. Fertilize lightly in spring if soil is poor.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.