European Smoketree (Cotynus coggygria), fam. Anacardiaceae.
   A shrub that sometimes grows in the city. It is much more abundant in southern Ukraine, as it likes dry, calcareous soil. A small bush has also been met in the forest. Blooms in May, then during all summer and autumn it is distinguished by its pink or yellowish panicles of composite fruits. Smoketree leaves contain tannin, so this plant is used as an astringent and antiinflammatory remedy; Russian species name also indicates its use for leather tanning.

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