Littleleaf Mountain Mahogany
Littleleaf mountain mahogany is a tough little shrub, tolerant of climatic extremes. The dense twiggy growth bears inconspicuous flowers that, by midsummer, mature into beautiful, feathery seed pods.
A native plant of the southwestern deserts, it is tolerant of very low water conditions once established. It makes a good background or structural plant in the Colorado Springs area.
It stays small, so it is a good addition for smaller yards, too. It is a great, maintenance-free choice for a xeric landscape.
Littleleaf Mountain Mahogany
Littleleaf mountain mahogany is a tough little shrub, tolerant of climatic extremes. The dense twiggy growth bears inconspicuous flowers that, by midsummer, mature into beautiful, feathery seed pods.
A native plant of the southwestern deserts, it is tolerant of very low water conditions once established. It makes a good background or structural plant in the Colorado Springs area.
It stays small, so it is a good addition for smaller yards, too. It is a great, maintenance-free choice for a xeric landscape.
Plant details
Botanic Name
Cercocarpus intricatus
Pronunciation
ser-ko-KAR-pus in-tree-KAY-tus
Mature Height
3 to 5 ft.
Mature Spread
2 to 3 ft.
Water usage
One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.
Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.
Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.
Flower Color
inconspicuous
Bloom time
April
Colorado Native
Yes
Natural Habitat
southwestern United States
Light Requirements
sun
Cold Hardiness
USDA zones 3-9
Elevation Limit
hardy to 8,000 ft.
Performance
Littleleaf mountain mahogany has grown well at the Water Wise Demonstration Garden. It grows slowly and can take several years to mature.
Although it is not a very showy shrub, its drought tolerance and weather resilience have proven its value in landscapes. Requires hardly any care. There are several mature shrubs at the Cottonwood Creek Park by the play structures.
Maintenance
Light, selective pruning can be performed to enhance the structure. Otherwise, no maintenance is necessary.