Contents
Description
Cercocarpus, commonly known as the mountain mahogany, is a genus of plants that are native to the arid regions of North and South America. The name Cercocarpus comes from the Greek words “kerkos” meaning tail and “karpos” meaning fruit, referring to the long, feathery styles that extend from the fruit. The plant has evergreen leaves and is known for its unique features such as its twisted branches and reddish-brown bark.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Cercocarpus |
Appearance
Cercocarpus plants are small to medium-sized trees or shrubs that grow up to 10 meters in height. The leaves are evergreen, leathery, and usually have a serrated edge. The plant’s flowers are small, inconspicuous, and appear in clusters. The fruit of the plant is a long, slender achene that is covered in long, feathery styles. The bark of the plant is reddish-brown and is known for its intriguing twisted branches that give it a unique appearance.
Care Guide
Cercocarpus plants are known for their ability to thrive in arid environments. Here are some tips on how to care for your Cercocarpus plant:- Water: Cercocarpus plants require moderate watering, especially during the growing season. Be sure to allow the soil to dry out between waterings.- Fertilization: Fertilize your Cercocarpus plant once a year with a slow-release fertilizer.- Soil: Cercocarpus plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Cercocarpus plants thrive in full sun or partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Cercocarpus plants are hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cercocarpus plants are susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:- Spider mites: These pests can cause leaf discoloration and webbing on the plant.- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves.
Habitat
Cercocarpus plants are native to the arid regions of North and South America. They can be found in places like the Mojave Desert, the Great Basin, and the Chihuahuan Desert. These plants are adapted to survive in harsh environments with little water and high temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cercocarpus plants be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Cercocarpus plants can be grown in containers as long as they have well-draining soil and receive adequate sunlight.
Q: How often should I water my Cercocarpus plant?
A: Cercocarpus plants require moderate watering, especially during the growing season. Be sure to allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Cercocarpus plants?
A: Cercocarpus plants are hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Q: How tall can a Cercocarpus plant grow?
A: Cercocarpus plants can grow up to 10 meters in height.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Cercocarpus:- Prunus- Amelanchier- Pyracantha- Aronia- Crataegus
References
– “Cercocarpus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=k760.- “Cercocarpus.” Plant Database, Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/55069/.- “Cercocarpus.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 22 Mar. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cercocarpus.
