‘Royal Purple’ smoke bush is a dramatic shrub 3–4 m with velvety, deep burgundy leaves that hold colour all season. In early summer, airy panicles of pinkish hairs create the signature “smoke” effect, then foliage turns fiery red‑orange in autumn. Thriving in full sun and poor, well‑drained soil, it’s drought‑tolerant once established and hardy to −20 °C. Light pruning in spring encourages large leaves and compact form, making it a stunning focal shrub.