Leaf Identification
The leaf of the Smoke Tree is simple (no leaflets), alternately arranged on the stem, and unlobed. Its shape is broadly elliptic to almost circular with a bluntly pointed tip, and can reach 3″ in length. The ‘Ancot’ cultivar has yellow-green leaves which turn maroon in the fall.
Twig and Bud Identification
The twig matures from green to tan, and is not zig zag.
Bark Identification
The bark is dark gray and covered in small thin plates, with little to no furrowing present between the plates. Multiple trunks will often develop from one tree.
Fruit Identification
The fruits of the Smoke Tree are drupes, developing singly on long pink stalks. The fruits range in shape from teardrop-shaped to kidney-shaped. They ripen in the fall.
Flower Identification
The flowers of the Smoke Tree emerge on multi-branched panicles. The flowers are inconspicuous and green-yellow. After the flowers bloom in the spring, the pedicels (individual flower stalks) develop long, silky, pink-purple hairs through the summer.
‘Ancot’ Identification
The ‘Ancot’ cultivar of the Smoke Tree is golden-leaved and develops a variety of autumn hues in its fall foliage.