Cotinus obovatus, American Smoketree

A very showy and dynamic small tree with springtime flower clusters that look misty or smoky, giving the tree its common name. Plant in well-draining soil with as little amendment as possible, as Smoketrees in "good garden conditions tend to be weak and spindly. Leaves emerge in Spring as a light pink, convert to a deep bluish-green, and in fall senescence radiate reds, purples and yellows. A great native alternative to Japanese Maples (Acer palmatum).