Curl-Leaf Mountain Mahogany (Cercocarpus ledifolius) is a long-lived, evergreen, woody shrub that can be up to 15' tall. The oldest specimen in Utah is believed to be over 720 years old! It features small leathery leaves, aromatic bark, and small, insignificant white flowers that turn to seeds with hairy plumes. This shrub is very drought tolerant and its major attraction lies in the contrast between its leaves and very light bark, the interesting gnarled shape it will assume over time, and its winter interest due to its evergreen leaves.  Use Curl-Leaf Mountain Mahogany as an architectural specimen in a xeric or other dry garden, or in a natural or restorative planting area. Only minimal pruning is required to maintain a desirable shape. Mahoganies do not compete well and look their best when surrounded by grasses or herbaceous plants. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution.