Smokebush

Airy, smoke-like plumes float above smokebush in summer, giving the shrub a soft, hazy glow. In fall the rounded leaves turn orange, red, and purple. It works well in borders, hedges, screens, and rock gardens, and the plumes are lovely in arrangements. Once established, it tolerates drought and lean soils in sunny, well-drained sites. Soak the small, hard seeds in warm water, then give them a cool, moist rest, and seedlings will follow.