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island mountain mahogany
Scientific Name: Cercocarpus montanus var. blancheae
Family: Rosaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Tree, Shrub
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Island Mountain Mahogany and Its Relatives
This page explores the fascinating world of Island Mountain Mahogany and related species within the Cercocarpus genus. These plants, members of the rose family, are known for their unique characteristics and sometimes limited distribution.
Nomenclature and Taxonomy
- Scientific Name: Cercocarpus alnifolius
- Common Names: Island Mountain Mahogany, Mountain Mahogany, Alderleaf Mountain Mahogany, Silver Mountain Mahogany, Birchleaf Mountain Mahogany, Catalina Mahogany, Santa Catalina Island Mountain-mahogany
- Family: Rosaceae (Rose Family)
- Genus: Cercocarpus Kunth
Several species and varieties are mentioned, including:
- Cercocarpus betuloides Torrey & A. Gray var. blancheae (C. Schneider) Little. Synonyms include Cercocarpus betuloides var. blancheae.
- Cercocarpus traskiae Eastw.
- Cercocarpus montanus
Distribution and Habitat
- Several varieties of Mountain Mahogany can be found on the Channel Islands off the coast of California, including Santa Catalina Island.
- Cercocarpus traskiae, is endemic to Santa Catalina Island.
- Other locations mentioned include Baja California, South Dakota, Utah, Texas, and Oklahoma.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Cercocarpus alnifolius is an evergreen shrub or small tree, typically reaching around 12 feet tall and 4 feet wide.
- It is noted to be excellent for tall, narrow hedges.
- The leaves of some varieties have a woolly texture.
- Some species are shrubs or small deciduous trees.
- Flowers that lack petals.