Description: Cotinus coggygria 'Royal Purple', commonly known as Royal Purple Smokebush, is a deciduous shrub celebrated for its striking deep purple foliage and unique, smoky appearance during flowering. In spring, the rounded leaves emerge rich maroon-red, maturing to a deep wine purple in summer, and transitioning to vibrant red-orange hues in autumn. From late spring to early summer, the plant produces large, feathery, pinkish-purple flower plumes that create a hazy, smoke-like effect, hence the name "Smokebush". This cultivar typically grows to a height and width of 3 to 4.5 meters, forming an upright, loose-spreading, multi-stemmed shrub. It thrives in Melbourne's climate, preferring well-drained soils and full sun exposure to maintain its vibrant leaf coloration. Once established, it exhibits moderate drought tolerance and can be used as a striking focal point in garden landscapes.Â