Cotinus Coggygria - wig bush

Cotinus Coggygria, generally known as wig shrub, smoke tree or dye tree, belongs to the family of the sumach family (Anacardiaceae). This decorative plant is located in large parts of Europe and Asia and is estimated in gardening and landscaping because of its unique appearance and its versatile use. Cotinus Coggygria is characterized by striking inflorescences and an attractive autumn color, which makes it a popular ornamental plant.

morphology

Cotinus Coggygria is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can reach a height of 3 to 5 meters and a similar width. The plant has an expansive, loose growth shape with numerous, often winding branches. The bark is initially smooth and gray-brown, but becomes cracked and scaly in old age.

The leaves are alternately arranged, oval to rounded and measure about 3 to 8 centimeters in length. They are whole, have a smooth surface and are often slightly hairy. The leaf color varies from green to purple, depending on the variety and season. The intensive autumn color, which ranges from bright orange to deep red, is particularly remarkable.

The inflorescences of Cotinus Coggygria are panicles and appear in late spring until early summer. The flowers themselves are small, yellowish and rather inconspicuous. After the flowering period, long, spring -like fruit stands develop that give the shrub a "smoky" look and brought it into the name "wig bush". These fruit stands remain the summer and contribute to the decorative effect of the plant.

Distribution and Habitat

Cotinus Coggygria is native to Central Asia in a wide area from southern Europe. The plant prefers sunny to partially shaded locations and grows best on well -permeable, calcareous soils. It is adaptable and thrives in dry, stony regions as well as on moderately damp, fertile soils. The wig shrub is also relatively tolerant of drought and urban conditions, which promotes its use in urban green areas.

Ecological meaning

Cotinus Coggygria offers habitat and food for various insects and birds. The flowers attract polliging insects, including bees and butterflies that contribute to the pollination of other plants. The thick leaves and fruit stands offer protection and nesting options for birds and small mammals.

Use and economic importance

Cotinus Coggygria is mainly used as an ornamental plant in gardens, parks and landscapes. The plant is popular because of its striking inflorescences, the intensive autumn color and its general robustness. Various cultivars were developed to further strengthen the decorative properties of the plant, including varieties with particularly intensive leaf colors or compact growth.

Historically, the wig bush was also used as a dye plant. The bark and leaves contain dyes that were used for coloring textiles, especially in yellow and orange colors.

In traditional medicine, extracts from Cotinus Coggygria were used to treat various symptoms, including skin problems, inflammation and infections. The plant contains bioactive compounds such as tannins and flavonoids that can have medical effects. However, the scientific evidence is limited for these applications and further research is required to comprehensively understand the medical properties of the plant.

Research and maintenance

Research on Cotinus Coggygria focuses on its ecological interactions, the genetic diversity within the type and its adaptation mechanisms on various environmental conditions. In some regions, the plant is also monitored as a potential invasive way to control its spread and the effects on native plant species.

Conservation measures for Cotinus Coggygria include the protection of natural habitats and the promotion of the use of local varieties in landscape design. Botanical gardens play an important role in the preservation of genetic diversity by creating seed banks and cultivating plants for resettlement in suitable habitats.