Curl-Leaf Mountain Mahogany
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(Cercocarpus ledifolius)
Curl-Leaf Mountain Mahogany (Cercocarpus ledifolius)
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Photo by Easyscape
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Photo by Easyscape
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Copyright:
CC BY-SA 4.0
Copyright Notice:
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ | CC BY-SA 4.0
Summary
Cercocarpus ledifolius, commonly known as Curl-Leaf Mountain Mahogany, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the mountainous regions, rocky slopes, and chaparral of the Western United States. It typically grows to a height and width of 20-30 feet (6-9 meters), featuring a dense, rounded form. The plant is notable for its leathery, curled leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers that bloom in the spring. The bark is reddish-brown and exfoliates in thin strips, adding to its ornamental value. After flowering, feathery, plume-like fruits appear, which persist into winter and provide visual interest.
Curl-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. It is also used for erosion control on slopes and as a windbreak due to its sturdy nature. This species requires minimal maintenance once established and is suitable for full sun to part shade conditions, preferring well-drained soils. While generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.CC BY-SA 4.0
Curl-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. It is also used for erosion control on slopes and as a windbreak due to its sturdy nature. This species requires minimal maintenance once established and is suitable for full sun to part shade conditions, preferring well-drained soils. While generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
- Height: 20-30 feet
- Width: 20-30 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Drainage: Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Mountainous regions, rocky slopes, and chaparral
Other Names
Common Names: Curl-Leaf Mountain-Mahogany, Curlleaf Cercocarpus
Scientific Names: Cercocarpus ledifolius, Cercocarpus ledifolius var. hypoleucus, Cercocarpus ledifolius f. hirsutus, Cercocarpus arizonicus, Cercocarpus ledifolius f. subglaber, Cercocarpus ledifolius var. typicus
GBIF Accepted Name: Cercocarpus ledifolius Nutt.