Littleleaf Mountain Mahogany (Cercocarpus ledifolius var. intricatus) is a stunning, hardy, and low-maintenance evergreen shrub that thrives in rugged and difficult landscapes. Its small, dark green leaves are leathery and glossy, adding texture and rich color to the landscape year-round. In late spring, it produces small, fragrant, white to pale yellow flowers that attract pollinators, followed by distinctive, feathery seed heads that persist through winter, adding visual interest even after the growing season. The Littleleaf Mountain Mahogany thrives in well-drained soils and can handle a wide range of soil types, from rocky to clay. Known for its drought tolerance and resilience, this plant is an excellent choice for dry garden beds and borders, rock gardens, Mediterranean style garden areas, erosion control on slopes, and naturalized gardens areas in dry, rocky, or mountainous regions. Highlight its arctitectural form by surrounding it with short, soft grasses or perennials.
Expected 2025 Availability- Late April
Photo Credit: Stan Shebs
Littleleaf Mountain Mahogany
Irrigation Requirement: Very Low (Water to Establish)
Mature Size: 4 - 5' tall and 3 - 4' wide
Spacing: 3- 4' apart
Bloom Colors: Pink, Red, Yellow
Bloom Season: June
Hardiness Zone: 4 - 7
Light Requirement: Full Sun
Deer Resistant: Yes
Salt Tolerant: Yes
Soils: Requires well-drained soil, but can be tolerant of sand, loam, or clay soils.
Plants in the Cercocarpus genus are host species for 20 known native pollinators in northern Utah. Littleleaf Mountain Mahogany is also a valuable browse and cover plant for birds and mammals.