Cercocarpus ledifolius

Common Names

Curl-Leaf Mountain Mahogany, Curl Leaf Mountain Mahogany, Curl-Leaf Mountain-Mahogany

Summary

Curl-leaf mountain mahogany is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to western North America, typically 2–8 m tall with spreading, stiff branches. Leaves are lanceolate to narrowly oblong, dark green above and downy beneath, thick and leathery with entire, revolute margins and a prominent midrib. Fruits terminate with a silky plume-like style, 2–3 inches long.

Preferring full sun and well-drained soils, it is drought-tolerant and hardy to USDA Zone 6. Propagation occurs by seed and cuttings, with germination enhanced by cold stratification, and may also be established by mound layering; it is a nitrogen fixer and provides browse for deer and elk, with seeds eaten by small mammals. In landscapes it serves as a hedge or specimen plant, supports wildlife habitat, and is used in native landscaping and erosion control; maintenance includes selective pruning to control size and form. It supports mine reclamation and has medicinal uses.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

6-30 feet

Spread

8-15 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 6-10

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full sun. Tolerates partial shade.

Soil Type

Well-drained, dry, nutrient-poor soil

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil

Soil pH

5.5–7.9, Mildly acidic, neutral, or mildly alkaline soils

Bloom Color

Cream, Greenish yellow, Red, White, Yellow, reddish

Bloom Time

Spring to early Summer

Foliage Color

Dark green on the upper surface; paler, white-tomentose beneath.

Fall Foliage Color

No fall foliage color; evergreen; leaves persist year-round.

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

Slow-growing

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Summer

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Layering

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, hummingbirds, butterflies, and birds