Dusky Maiden Smokebush

Dusky Maiden Smokebush (Cotinus coggygria 'Dusky Maiden')

Dusky Maiden Smokebush (Cotinus coggygria 'Dusky Maiden') is a striking deciduous shrub prized for its deep burgundy foliage and airy, smoke-like flower plumes. This compact cultivar offers dramatic color from spring through fall, making it a standout choice for mixed borders, foundation plantings, and contemporary landscapes.

Distinctive Features

'Dusky Maiden' features rounded leaves that emerge a rich wine-red in spring and deepen to near-purple by summer, with hints of orange and crimson in autumn. In early summer, delicate, pink-hued flower panicles rise above the foliage, creating a hazy, smoke-like effect. Its compact habit�typically maturing at 4 to 6 feet tall and wide�makes it ideal for smaller spaces.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for best color and flowering
• Soil: Well-drained soil; tolerates poor or rocky conditions
• Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Bold foliage and smoky blooms make a dramatic centerpiece
• Mixed Borders: Provides contrast against green- or silver-leaved companions
• Foundation Planting: Adds structure and seasonal color near buildings
• Modern Landscapes: Dark foliage works well in minimalist or contemporary designs
• Container Gardening: Compact size and visual interest make it a good fit for large pots

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season; reduce once established
• Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain size and shape, or rejuvenate older plants
• Fertilizing: Typically not needed; too much fertilizer may reduce foliage color intensity
• Mulching: Apply mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
• Protection: Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot in wet soils

Why Choose Dusky Maiden Smokebush?

• Compact Habit: Smaller size fits well in urban and small-space gardens
• Deep Burgundy Foliage: Provides season-long color and bold texture
• Unique Flower Display: Airy plumes add softness and movement
• Drought Tolerant: Reliable once established in dry conditions
• Focal Point: Eye-catching foliage and blooms anchor garden designs

Cotinus coggygria 'Dusky Maiden' delivers dramatic color and graceful movement in a compact form, making it a bold yet refined focal point for modern gardens and mixed borders alike.