Cotinus coggygria 'Ancot' GOLDEN SPIRIT

The award-winning Golden Spirit Smoketree is a large shrub or small tree that is primarily grown for its unique showy golden yellow leaves.  Flowering is questionably, as it was not created to flower like other varieties of the genus.   After 4 years of testing, the patent issued in 2002 remarked "no flowering has been observed by the inventor to date".  However, in the commercial market, nurseries do state that Golden spirit will produce tiny flowers followed by smoky panicles similar to other cultivars.  If flowering takes place, it will be on old wood.  

Plant in the full sun to partial shade in moist, well-drained soil.  The best leaf coloration can be achieved when situated in full sun.  

Mass plant it or plant in small groups in a shrub border.  Its striking leaves and spent flowers make it an excellent choice for a specimen or accent plant.  It works well to screen or it can be pruned into a hedge.  Cutting back will result in new stems and larger, brighter foliage.  The foliage is typically sun tolerant and scorch resistant unless extremely dry conditions persist.

With its springtime orange tinged chartreuse foliage, summer golden foliage and fall color, Golden Spirit will provide three seasons of interest to any garden.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Although relatively insect and disease free, there is some susceptibility to verticillium wilt, rust and leaf spot.  Will not adapt to damp/moist poorly drained sites.  

More information on Cotinus coggygria.