Cotinus coggygria, commonly known as smokebush or smoke tree, is a flowering plant in the family Anacardiaceae. It is native to southern Europe, southwest Asia, and the southeastern United States.
Smokebush is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can grow up to 6 meters tall. It has roundish leaves that are typically 4-8 centimeters long. The leaves emerge with a reddish-purple color in spring then turn green over the summer.
In midsummer, smokebush produces airy panicles of tiny greenish-yellow flowers. As the flowers fade, the pedicels supporting them turn from red to white and remain on the plant, giving the floral panicles a feathery, smoke-like appearance. This is how the plant got its common name.
Smokebush is valued in landscaping and ornamental horticulture for its striking foliage and distinctive blooming habit. It is commonly used for backgrounds, screens, mass plantings, and in perennial borders. Numerous cultivars have been selected for different leaf colors and plant sizes.
Various parts of Cotinus, including the leaves, flowers, bark and roots, have been used for herbal medicine and dye production. However, some sources indicate the plant may have toxic properties, particularly in livestock that ingest the wilted leaves.
What is the Difference Between Cotinus Extract and Smoke Tree?
Cotinus extract refers to herbal extracts taken from the leaves, flowers or stems of Cotinus coggygria, the smoke tree plant. These extracts contain the bioactive compounds found naturally in smokebush.
Cotinus extract has become popular in skin care products. It is touted as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory ingredient that may help protect skin from free radicals and environmental damage.
In contrast, the term "smoke tree" refers specifically to the ornamental plant itself, Cotinus coggygria. Smoke tree is grown in gardens and landscapes for its aesthetic qualities as a decorative shrub or small tree.
So in summary:
- Cotinus extract - A botanical extract from the leaves, stems, or flowers of the smoke tree, used for potential health and skin benefits.
- Smoke tree - The common name for the entire Cotinus coggygria plant species cultivated for ornamental purposes.
Why is it Called Smoke Tree?
Cotinus coggygria is commonly known as smoke tree because of the unique "smoke-like" appearance of its blooming panicles.
In early summer, the shrub flowers with large plumes of tiny greenish-yellow blooms. As the flowers fade away, the pinkish-red flower stalks (pedicels) remain on the plant.
When the wind blows, these wispy dried pedicels move in the breeze, creating a cloud-like smokey or misty effect throughout the foliage. This resembles puffs of smoke swirling through the branches, hence the common name smoke tree or smokebush.
Cultivars such as 'Royal Purple' and 'Velvet Cloak' have especially prominent smoke-like flowers that provide striking visual interest in the landscape. The smoke tree blooms develop their signature smoke appearance in mid-to-late summer and can persist into fall.
Discussion on Toxicity
While smoke tree cotinus coggygria has tradition uses in folk medicine and dyeing, some experts warn that the plant may have toxic properties, particularly for livestock.
The main toxic compound found in Cotinus species is a naphthoquinone known as plumbagin. Plumbagin concentrations vary throughout the plant, but are highest in the leaves and green stems.
In veterinary literature, smoke bush toxicity is associated with fresh, wilted leaves. Cases of poisoning have occurred when animals ingest large quantities of fallen leaves in autumn. Effects include diarrhea, vomiting, weakness, and respiratory distress.
There are limited reports of toxicity in humans. However, contact dermatitis from plumbagin has been documented in individual cases. The roots and bark also appear to have the highest concentration of plumbagin.
Despite this, Cotinus leaves, flowers and roots have a long history of medicinal use in some cultures when taken in moderation. No serious adverse events were noted in humans ingesting small amounts for short durations. The toxicity risk appears low with cautious and appropriate use.
Parts of Cotinus Coggygria and Their Potential Risks
1 Leaves
Fresh, wilted leaves pose the greatest toxicity risk to livestock due to higher plumbagin content. Dried leaves appear to have lower toxicity. Contact dermatitis is possible when handling leaves.
2 Flowers
Considered non-toxic. Have been used in herbal medicine without adverse effects at normal doses. Contains lower levels of plumbagin than other parts. Should not be eaten in large quantities.
3 Bark
May contain higher plumbagin concentrations and other unknown compounds. Caution is advised - bark should not be ingested. Handle with gloves to prevent skin irritation.
4 Roots
Roots potentially contain higher levels of plumbagin and unknown compounds. Ingestion not recommended due to toxicity risks. May cause skin irritation during handling.
What Tree Has the Most Healing Properties?
There are a number of trees prized in natural medicine for their healing potential. Some of the trees with notable therapeutic properties include:
Tea Tree - Tea tree oil contains anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound healing compounds. Used to treat skin conditions and infections.
Neem - Neem bark, leaves, seeds, and oil contain over 140 bioactive compounds. Used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat inflammations, infections, fever, skin diseases, and dental issues.
Peppertree - Historically used to treat arthritis, inflammation, gout, asthma, colds, and dental problems. Contains pain relieving compounds.
Willow - Willow bark contains salicin, a chemical similar to aspirin. Used for centuries to relieve pain and inflammation.
Sandalwood - Sandalwood essential oil promotes calmness and relaxation. Used topically and aromatically for skin healing. Also used for respiratory issues.
Expert Opinions and Perspectives on Cotinus Toxicity
There are differing opinions within the horticultural community regarding the potential toxicity of Cotinus coggygria:
Some experts assert that smokebush should be avoided in landscapes with livestock or horses due to risks from wilted leaves. They recommend exercising caution and wearing gloves when handling leaves.
Others argue it is relatively non-toxic to humans if ingested in small amounts. They point to a long history of medicinal use of Cotinus leaves and flowers without adverse effects at appropriate dosages.
Most agree the highest concentrations of plumbagin are found in the leaves, roots and green bark. The Woods Hole Veterinary Clinic notes dried leaves and mature plants have lower toxicity. They advise keeping livestock away from immature foliage.
Overall, experts acknowledge the bioactive compounds in Cotinus extract warrant caution but its toxicity risk may be overstated in some sources. There is lack of data on human toxicity. As with any bioactive plant, educated use and moderation is advised. Consulting a poison control center, veterinarian or medical professional is recommended for safety questions.
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