Alder-Leaf Mountain-Mahogany

(Cercocarpus montanus)

Alder-Leaf Mountain-Mahogany (Cercocarpus montanus)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Cercocarpus montanus image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Cercocarpus montanus, commonly known as Alder-Leaf Mountain-Mahogany, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the semi-arid regions of the Mountain West and Great Plains of the United States, California, and Northern Mexico. It is typically found in dry, rocky soils of foothills, canyons, and plateaus. This plant usually reaches a height of 12 feet (4 meters) and a width of 4-8 feet (1.2-2.4 meters), with a rounded form and a dense, twiggy appearance. The leaves resemble those of alders, and it produces small, inconspicuous yellow to red flowers in the spring, followed by feathery, plume-like fruits that are quite showy and persist into winter.

Alder-Leaf Mountain-Mahogany is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings in arid regions. It is also used for erosion control and as a windbreak due to its dense growth habit. In cultivation, it requires minimal maintenance, thriving in full sun with low water needs and well-drained soils. While it is not commonly afflicted by diseases, it can suffer from root rot if overwatered. This species is not known for aggressive roots or significant pest issues. It is not typically invasive when grown outside its native range, but gardeners should always monitor and manage plants to prevent unwanted spread.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Tree
  • Height: 8-12 feet
  • Width: 4-8 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

native to the semi-arid regions of the Mountain West and Great Plains of the United States, California, and Northern Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: Alderleaf Mountain Mahogany , Alder-Leaf Cercocarpus , True Mountain-Mohagany

Scientific Names: Cercocarpus betuloides , Cercocarpus montanus , Cercocarpus montanus var. montanus , Cercocarpus flabellifolius , Cercocarpus montanus var. flabellifolius , Cercocarpus parvifolius var. hirsutissimus , Cercocarpus parvifolius var. breviflorus , Cercocarpus parvifolius var. minimus

GBIF Accepted Name: Cercocarpus montanus Raf.