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littleleaf mountain mahogany

Scientific Name: Cercocarpus intricatus

Family: Rosaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Littleleaf Mountain Mahogany (Cercocarpus intricatus)

Littleleaf Mountain Mahogany, also known as Narrowleaf Mahogany and Dwarf Mountain Mahogany, is a fascinating shrub found in specific regions of North America. This plant belongs to the Rose family and is noted for its resilience and adaptability to dry environments.

Considerations for Pets

  • This plant is a shrub.
  • The plant has small leaves.
  • The plant has branches.

Considerations for Children

  • This plant is a shrub.
  • The plant has small leaves.
  • The plant has branches.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Cercocarpus intricatus S. Watson
  • Synonyms: Cercocarpus ledifolius var. intricatus (S. Watson) M.E. Jones
  • Common Names: Littleleaf Mountain Mahogany, Narrowleaf Mountain Mahogany, Dwarf Mountain Mahogany
  • Family: Rosaceae (Rose Family)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Found in dry regions of the western United States.
  • Specifically prevalent in southern Utah.
  • Native to dry slopes of mountains in California, Arizona, and Nevada.
  • Grows at elevations between 4,000 and 8,500 feet.
  • Also found in southwestern Wyoming.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Evergreen perennial shrub.
  • Typically grows up to 6-8 feet tall (some sources say 3-5 feet).
  • Mature width typically reaches 4-6 feet.
  • Leaves are alternate, simple, persistent, leathery, and commonly clustered on spur shoots (approximately 1/2 inch).
  • Known for its dense, rounded shape with stiff, intertwining branches.

Quirky Facts

  • The genus name "Cercocarpus" is derived from Greek, meaning "tailed fruit."

Ecological Role

  • Well-suited for water-conserving landscapes.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Considered to be a companion plant for certain species.

Further Information

  • USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database: Provides additional information on mountain-mahogany (Cercocarpus ledifolius).
  • Plant Select: Offers information on superior selections of little-leaf mountain mahogany.
  • Discover Life: Contains a page dedicated to the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Cercocarpus intricatus.