Dirca occidentalis aka Western Leatherwood

Dirca occidentalis is a deciduous shrub known as western leatherwood. It belongs to the Thymelaeaceae family. Its native range lies in west-central California, in temperate conditions. It sheds its leaves rather than keeping them year-round. The reported garden height is about 6 feet [1.8 metres]. This makes it a small shrub for a woodland planting. The supplied sources give no mature width or growth rate.

Flowers appear in March, early in the growing season. Each flower has both male and female organs. Early bloom brings a risk of damage from frost. The plant itself has a reported USDA range of 6–9. Its flowers can still suffer when cold weather strikes. The evidence gives no flower colour or fruit description. It also gives no details of leaf shape or bark.

Western leatherwood grows in moist sites within its native habitat. These sites often have soils rich in calcium. In gardens, it needs moist soil and a sheltered spot. One account favours peat-rich soil; another favours humus-rich soil with lime. It can grow in sand, loam, or clay. Its reported pH range runs from mildly acid to mildly alkaline. Both partial shade and full sun suit the plant. Woodland edges and places with dappled shade are listed garden settings. Its need for moisture remains important in these sites.

Seed and layering offer ways to raise new plants. Sow fresh seed in a cold frame once ripe. Remove the flesh first, since it can hinder germination. Stored, dry seed needs two to three months of cold treatment. Germination may take one to six months at 15°C. Move seedlings into separate pots once large enough to handle. Keep them in a greenhouse through their first winter. Plant them out in late spring or early summer. Wait until the risk of frost has passed.

Plants For A Future lists no known food uses. It also lists no known medicinal uses for this species. Its entry reports no known hazards, but does not establish safety. The supplied evidence gives no specific pest or disease problems. It records no weed potential. Claims about bark fibre and basketry concern a different species. They do not establish those uses for western leatherwood.