Cotinus, or smoke bush, is a genus that knows how to put on a show. Famous for its dramatic plumes of airy, smoke-like flower panicles, Cotinus adds a theatrical quality to summer borders. The foliage is equally striking, with varieties ranging from deep burgundy to golden lime, many of which intensify in autumn to fiery reds and oranges.

As a garden shrub, Cotinus offers year-round interest. Its bold leaves bring structure and contrast to mixed plantings, while its cloud-like flowers create a dreamy effect when backlit by the sun. Cotinus grows well in a range of soils and suits both formal and informal designs, whether used as a statement specimen or woven into larger schemes. Combining flamboyance with reliability, Cotinus is a genus that brings both drama and sophistication to the garden.