Cercocarpus betuloides
Mountain Mahogany, Hardtack
Description
This evergreen shrub grows 15' high and 6' wide. It can be pruned to look like a small tree 20' tall. Small yellow, fragrant flowers cover the shrub in spring which contrast with the red stems. The leaves are small and oval-shaped. Feathery fruit hang on the shrub in fall and when backlit, gives off a silvery glow. This shrub tolerates full to part sun with rocky, poor soil. This California native is great for erosion control or revegetating an area. It is useful in narrow areas for privacy since it can be pruned into a privacy hedge. Deer browse this plant. It is wind tolerant and needs occasional water once it's established. Also known as Hardtack.
Plant Type
Tree, Shrub
Height Range
12-25'
Flower Color
Yellow
Flower Season
Spring
Leaf Color
Dark Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
Brown
Fruit Season
Summer
Sun
Full, Half
Water
Very Low
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Rocky
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 around plants helps retain water and improves the soil.