Cercocarpus montanus var. argenteus, commonly known as Silver Mountain Mahogany, is an evergreen shrub native to the rocky slopes and canyons of the Southwestern United States, particularly in the chaparral and scrub ecosystems. It typically grows to a height of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters) and a width of 4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters), with a dense, rounded form. The plant is notable for its small, leathery leaves that have a silvery sheen, contributing to its common name. The flowers, which appear in the spring, are small but numerous, with white to yellow petals that are not particularly showy. However, they give way to distinctive, feathery fruits that persist on the plant and add visual interest.

Silver Mountain Mahogany is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor, rocky soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings in arid regions. It is also used for erosion control on slopes and as a low-maintenance ornamental in water-wise gardens. This plant prefers full sun and can tolerate a range of soil drainage conditions, from fast to slow. While it is generally free of serious pests and diseases, it can occasionally suffer from root rot if overwatered.CC BY-SA 4.0