Mountain Mahogany
cercocarpus montanus
Also known as: ["Rocky Mountain Mahogany","Western Mountain Mahogany"]
Overview
A small, drought-tolerant deciduous shrub native to the western United States, known for its distinctive spiral-shaped seeds and small, leathery leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Cercocarpus |
| Botanical Name: | Cercocarpus montanus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: xeric garden, rock garden, or open landscape
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–34–43°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining; essential to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or every 2–3 years to rejuvenate.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moving from shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is ideal; avoid deep shade; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries out between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with sand or perlite if needed.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–7; tolerates cold temperatures down to -30°F (-34°C); prefers moderate temperatures in summer.
Protect from extreme heat; mulch in winter; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
rarely required, annually in early spring if needed
Fertilize sparingly; use a balanced formula; avoid late-season feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use fresh cuttings; maintain humidity; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage denser growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead wood, and encourage bushier growth; best done after flowering or in late winter.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or crossing branches.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or soil is depleted; typically every 3–5 years.
Checklist
Check root boundness; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply water slowly to allow deep penetration; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter; allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme heat; dieback or delayed growth in prolonged cold without protection.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or drop; growth may slow or stop; roots can be damaged in poorly drained soil during freeze-thaw cycles.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; avoid planting in low-lying areas prone to frost pockets; ensure good soil drainage to prevent root damage.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering during prolonged heat waves; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; water deeply but infrequently; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers; do not fertilize in late summer or fall to prevent new growth vulnerable to winter damage.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCercocarpus montanus is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known toxic compounds or physiological effects associated with ingestion of this plant by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCercocarpus montanus is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or toxic compounds associated with ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCercocarpus montanus, commonly known as the mountain mahogany, is not considered toxic to humans. There are no known toxic compounds or physiological effects associated with ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Mountain Mahogany suitable for xeriscaping?
A: Yes, it is highly drought-tolerant and well-suited for xeriscaping.
Q: Does Mountain Mahogany attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it provides food and habitat for birds and pollinators.
Q: How fast does Mountain Mahogany grow?
A: It grows at a slow to moderate rate, typically reaching its mature size over several years.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during activ |
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