The smoke bush is valued for its bright, purple foliage and large clusters of flowers that resemble pillars of smoke.
It is a deciduous, perennial shrub that can grow to the size of a tree.
The plant tolerates drought well, so it is perfect for hot climates.
In the article we will tell you what types of smoke bush are and how to care for them.
Varieties of smoke bush
There are different varieties of this plant.
The most popular variety is «Golden Spirit» with purple foliage up to 10 feet tall. However, the foliage is initially lemon green and begins to turn red in autumn.
«Grace» can reach 15 feet tall and features burgundy-purple foliage in spring and summer. Leaves turn orange in autumn.
The most common shrub variety is Royal Purple. The plant has purple-red leaves that change to scarlet in autumn. In height, the type of bush can reach up to 15 feet.
«Nordine» has burgundy-bronze feathers that change to bright red and orange in autumn.
Smoke bush care
The shrub needs a lot of sunlight.
To plant a seedling, choose a place in the garden where the sun hits at least 6 hours a day.
Choose well-drained, clay-free soil.
For planting, dig a hole twice the size of the root ball.
So the root system can easily develop.
After planting, water the plant and continue to water regularly to encourage shrub growth.
Shrub pruning is not required.
If you want to trim to control the shape or size, do it in the spring.
However, the shrub will not bloom after pruning until the next season.
You can use compost for fertilizer.
