Online Plant Guide | Smoke Tree Native in Austin, Texas

---

Looking for a specific item?  Check out Leaf Landscape Supply's Online Inventory to see our full selection of onsite inventory. If you can't find what you are looking for, Submit A Custom Request and one our team members can help with a special order for your residential or commercial needs!

---

 

Smoke Tree Native: Selecting and Buying Guide for Austinites

If you’re looking to add a unique and visually striking plant to your Austin, Texas landscape, consider the smoke tree native. This beautiful deciduous shrub, also known as Cotinus obovatus, is admired for its stunning fall foliage and its ability to thrive in the local climate. In this guide, we’ll explore the characteristics of the smoke tree native, its suitability for Austin’s environment, and the steps for selecting and buying one for your landscaping needs.

The Smoke Tree Native

The smoke tree native is a versatile and hardy plant that is well-suited to the challenging climate of Austin, Texas. It is known for its distinctive smoke-like plumes of fluffy, pinkish flowers that emerge in the spring and its vibrant, multi-hued leaves that turn radiant shades of orange, red, and purple in the fall. This striking display of colors makes it a standout addition to any garden or landscape.

The smoke tree native is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of soil types, including the well-drained, alkaline soils common in the Austin area. It is also heat and drought tolerant, making it an excellent choice for the hot, dry Texas climate. With proper care and maintenance, the smoke tree native can grow into a small tree or a large shrub, providing structure and interest to your outdoor space.

Selecting a Smoke Tree Native

When selecting a smoke tree native for your Austin landscape, consider the following factors:

1. Size: Determine the desired size of the smoke tree native based on the available space in your garden or landscape. Smoke trees can range from compact shrubs to small trees, so choose a size that fits your space and design vision.

2. Color: Consider the color of the smoke tree native’s foliage, particularly its fall coloration. Look for varieties that offer vibrant and eye-catching hues to enhance the seasonal appeal of your outdoor space.

3. Site Conditions: Evaluate the environmental conditions of your planting area, including sunlight exposure, soil type, and available moisture. Choose a smoke tree native variety that can adapt to the specific conditions of your landscape.

4. Local Availability: Look for local nurseries or garden centers in the Austin area that carry smoke tree natives. Purchasing from a local provider can ensure that the plant is well-suited to the regional climate and ready for successful establishment in your landscape.

Buying a Smoke Tree Native

Once you’ve selected the ideal smoke tree native for your Austin landscape, follow these steps to purchase and bring it home:

1. Research Local Nurseries: Start by researching local nurseries or garden centers that specialize in native and drought-tolerant plants. Look for establishments with a reputation for high-quality plants and knowledgeable staff who can provide advice on selecting and caring for a smoke tree native.

2. Visit the Nursery: Make a trip to the nursery to view the available smoke tree natives in person. Take the time to inspect the plants for overall health, vigorous growth, and absence of pests or diseases. Consider engaging with the nursery staff to gain additional insights into the specific varieties and their suitability for your landscape.

3. Check for Local Adaptation: Inquire about the source of the smoke tree natives and whether they were grown locally or acclimated to the Austin area. Plants that have been acclimated to the local climate are more likely to thrive and establish successfully in your landscape.

4. Consider Container vs. Balled-and-Burlapped: Determine whether you prefer a smoke tree native that is container-grown or balled-and-burlapped. Container-grown plants offer convenience for immediate planting, while balled-and-burlapped specimens may require extra care during the initial establishment phase.

5. Arrange for Transportation: If you’re purchasing a larger-sized smoke tree native, ensure that you have a suitable vehicle for transportation. Plan for the proper handling and securing of the plant during transit to prevent any damage to its branches or root ball.

6. Review Warranty and Care Information: Inquire about any warranty or guarantee provided by the nursery for the smoke tree native. Additionally, gather essential care information, including watering, fertilizing, and pruning recommendations, to ensure the long-term health and vitality of the plant.

Planting and Care Considerations

Once you’ve purchased your smoke tree native and brought it home, it’s time to focus on planting and care. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

1. Planting Site: Select a well-drained location in your garden or landscape that receives ample sunlight, as smoke tree natives thrive in full sun to partial shade. Consider the mature size of the plant and provide adequate space for it to grow and develop over time.

2. Soil Preparation: Prepare the planting site by amending the soil with organic matter and ensuring proper drainage. Smoke tree natives prefer slightly alkaline soil, so consider conducting a soil test and making necessary adjustments to the pH level if needed.

3. Planting Process: Remove the smoke tree native from its container or burlap and gently loosen any circling roots. Dig a hole that is sufficient in size to accommodate the root ball, ensuring that it is planted at the same depth as it was in the nursery container. Backfill the hole with soil, water thoroughly, and apply a layer of organic mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

4. Watering and Maintenance: Provide regular and consistent watering, particularly during the establishment period, to encourage strong root development. Once established, smoke tree natives are relatively drought-tolerant, but they benefit from occasional deep watering during dry spells. Monitor the plant for any signs of stress, and address any pest or disease issues promptly.

5. Pruning and Shaping: Consider shaping and pruning the smoke tree native to maintain its desired form and size. Prune in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches and to promote healthy growth and flowering.

6. Seasonal Care: Pay attention to the seasonal needs of the smoke tree native, such as fertilization in the spring, mulching in the summer to conserve moisture, and monitoring for fall color development. Take proactive steps to protect the plant from extreme weather events, such as winter freezes or intense summer heat.

Wrapping up

Introducing a smoke tree native to your Austin, Texas landscape can elevate the visual appeal and diversity of your outdoor environment. By carefully selecting and purchasing a well-adapted variety from a reputable local source, and following the proper planting and care guidelines, you can enjoy the seasonal beauty and resilient nature of this captivating plant for years to come.