This tiny tree (sometimes a shrub) thrives in dry climates and poor soil. The European variety (Cotinus coggygria) hails from the Mediterranean hills, while the American variety (Cotinus obovatus) is native to the southeastern United States. With striking pink, cream, or grayish fluffy flowers that appear at the top of the tree, it’s no secret how this unique little ornamental beauty got her name.
Magical Use
Cleansing
Like the blinding, relentless sunlight in which she thrives, as well as the fragrant smoke that she visually resembles, smoketree is a potent spiritual and emotional detoxifier. Plant her in your yard to facilitate intentions related to powerful cleansing, such as to remove residual energy from previous residents, or to clear away apparent patterns of unhappiness, misfortune, or discord. For personal cleansing, spend some sacred quiet time with her on a bright, sunny day.
Magical Correspondences
Element: Air
Gender: Feminine
Planet: Saturn