Cercocarpus betuloides
Mountain Mahogany, Hardtack
Description
This evergreen shrub grows 5-12 ft. high or as a small tree to 20 ft. with loose, spreading habit. The leaves are sharply toothed and feather-veined beneath. The spring flowers give fall fruit with characteristic long feathery plume. It is very tolerant of drought situations and considered a good browse plant for animals. It can be found statewide in California at elevations of 500 to 4000 ft. in chaparral and woodland communities - Cornflower Farms
Plant Type
Shrub
Height Range
6-12'
Flower Color
White
Flower Season
Spring
Leaf Color
Dark Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
Brown
Fruit Season
Summer
Sun
Full
Water
Very Low
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Clay, Rocky, Unparticular
Soil Condition
Average, Poor
Soil pH
Neutral
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
Ranch
Accenting Features
n/a
Seasonal Interest
n/a
Location Uses
Background, Foundation
Special Uses
Erosion Control, Naturalizing
Attracts Wildlife
Wildlife
Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.