Cotinus obovatus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cotinus obovatus |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Habit of C. obovatus at Aarhus Botanical Gardens | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Cotinus
|
| Species: |
obovatus
|
 |
|
| Natural range of Cotinus obovatus | |
The American smoketree (scientific name: Cotinus obovatus) is a special kind of flowering plant. It's also known as chittamwood or American smokewood. This tree is quite rare and grows naturally in parts of the United States. You can find it in states like Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Alabama, and Tennessee.
It's a deciduous plant, which means it loses its leaves in the autumn. The American smoketree usually grows as a shrub or a small tree. It can reach about 10 meters (33 feet) tall and spread out about 8 meters (26 feet) wide. Its leaves are oval-shaped and can be up to 12 centimeters (about 5 inches) long.
Contents
What Makes It Special?
Amazing Fall Colors
One of the most amazing things about the American smoketree is its leaves in autumn. They turn a super bright scarlet red! Many people think it has the most intense and beautiful fall color of any tree. Imagine a whole tree glowing red in your backyard!
Why "Smoketree"?
The name "smoketree" comes from its unique look in summer. After the small, pink-grey flowers bloom, they leave behind fuzzy clusters of hairs on their stalks. These clusters look like puffs of smoke floating around the tree, giving it a very cool, hazy appearance.
Its Wood and Leaves
The wood inside the American smoketree is a bright yellow color. The scientific name obovatus means "in the shape of an inverted egg." This describes the oval shape of the tree's leaves.
Where Does It Grow?
The American smoketree is native to a few states in the central and southeastern United States. This means it naturally grows in these areas. Because it's so beautiful, especially in autumn, people around the world like to plant it in botanical gardens. These gardens help protect and show off different kinds of plants.
Is It in Danger?
Sadly, the American smoketree is a rare species. This means there aren't many of them left growing naturally in the wild. Scientists and plant lovers are working to protect it so that future generations can also enjoy its amazing beauty.
Images for kids
-
Cotinus obovatus leaves
-
American smoketree
-
American smoketree in Autumn
See also
In Spanish: Cotinus obovatus para niños
