Cercocarpus ledifolius aka Curlleaf Mountain Mahogany

Cercocarpus ledifolius is known as curlleaf mountain-mahogany. It belongs to the rose family, Rosaceae. Its native range spans the western United States and northern Baja California. It grows in Oregon and other western mountain regions. Wild plants live on dry, gravelly slopes in the interior mountains. They also occur in desert and dry shrubland. This species can live for a very long time.

It grows slowly as an upright shrub or small tree. Garden plants reach about 15 feet (4.5 metres), with a similar spread. The crown can be rounded or shaped like an umbrella. Larger plants may reach 35–40 feet (11–12.2 metres). PFAF gives a height of about 26 feet (8 metres). The bark ranges from reddish brown to grayish brown. Deep grooves divide its ridges, which may split into plates. Young twigs have fine hairs and a reddish brown tint. Older twigs become smooth and gray-brown.

The small, narrow leaves grow in an alternate pattern. Many cluster on short spur shoots along the branches. Each leaf feels thick and leathery, with edges rolled underneath. New leaves have hairs, while mature upper surfaces become smooth. The tops turn dark green; the undersides stay paler and hairy. The plant keeps its leaves through winter. Old leaves can remain until new growth appears. Small, greenish-yellow flowers have a trumpet shape and fine hairs. Insects pollinate flowers that contain both male and female organs. Each achene bears a long, twisted, feathery tail. These tails give the fruit a clear contrast with the leaves.

Grow this plant in full sun with very good drainage. It suits dry ground and can withstand drought. PFAF also lists moist soil as suitable when drainage is good. It accepts sandy, loamy, or clay soil under those conditions. Suitable soils range from mildly acid to mildly alkaline. Oregon State lists hardiness to USDA Zone 6. PFAF reports that some forms withstand about 1°F (−17°C). A sunny woodland edge is one supported garden setting. Its lasting leaves and shaped crown provide structure there.

The inner bark yields a red dye. The hard, dense wood serves as fuel and for small objects. Scraped bark has a recorded use as a tea ingredient. PFAF reports no known hazards, but this does not establish safety. Indigenous peoples used bark and wood preparations for several ailments. These are records of traditional use, not proof of treatment benefits. PFAF lists no weed concern. The supplied sources give no specific pest or disease problems.