Cotinus coggygria ‘Royal Purple’ – Smoke Bush (3L, 30–40cm)

Cotinus ‘Royal Purple’, commonly known as the Purple Smoke Bush, is a striking deciduous shrub celebrated for its deep purple foliage and unique, airy “smoke-like” flower plumes. A true statement plant, it adds bold colour and structure to any garden from spring through autumn.

In summer, soft, misty pink flower plumes create a hazy effect above the foliage, while in autumn the leaves turn brilliant shades of crimson and red, delivering outstanding seasonal interest.

Key Features

• Rich deep purple foliage throughout the season

• Unique smoky flower plumes in summer

• Spectacular autumn colour in reds and purples

• Upright, architectural shrub

• Low maintenance and drought tolerant once established

• Excellent for feature planting and contrast

Plant Details

• Plant type: Deciduous shrub

• Pot size: 3L

• Height on delivery: 30–40cm

• Mature height & spread: Approx. 2.5–4m

• Foliage: Deep purple, turning red in autumn

• Flowering period: Late spring to early summer

Growing Conditions

• Position: Full sun to partial shade (best colour in full sun)

• Soil: Well-drained soil (tolerates loam, clay, or sandy soils)

• pH: Slightly acidic to neutral

• Aspect: Sheltered or open position

Care Guide

• Watering: Keep well-watered during establishment; drought tolerant once mature

• Feeding: Apply a slow-release fertiliser in spring

• Mulching: Mulch annually to retain moisture and suppress weeds

• Pruning:

  • Light prune for shape in late winter

  • Hard prune every few years for bold foliage growth

• Maintenance: Generally pest and disease resistant

Garden Uses

• Perfect as a feature or specimen shrub

• Ideal for mixed borders and contrast planting

• Suitable for large containers

• Works well in low-maintenance landscapes

Why Choose Cotinus ‘Royal Purple’?

• Provides dramatic foliage colour all season

• Unique “smoke” flower effect

• Stunning autumn display

• Easy to grow and long-lived

A bold and elegant choice, Cotinus ‘Royal Purple’ delivers colour, texture, and year-round interest, making it a standout feature in any garden