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Description
Cercocarpus Intricatus, commonly known as littleleaf mountain mahogany, is a small evergreen shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in rocky and dry mountainous areas. The plant can reach up to 8 feet in height and has a very slow growth rate. It produces small, fragrant flowers that are attractive to pollinators and can bloom from late spring to early summer. The fruit of Cercocarpus Intricatus is a dry, woody seed pod that contains a single seed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Cercocarpus |
| Species | Intricatus |
Appearance
The littleleaf mountain mahogany has a dense and bushy appearance with a rounded crown. Its leaves are small, narrow, and leathery, and they grow in an alternating pattern. They are a glossy green color and have a slightly curved shape, giving the plant a feathery appearance. The bark of the shrub is dark brown and has a rough texture. During the blooming season, the plant produces small white or pinkish flowers that are about ¼ inch in diameter. The fruit is a small, woody capsule that is about 1 inch long and contains a single seed.
Care Guide
Cercocarpus Intricatus is a hardy plant that requires minimal care once established. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in dry conditions, but it will benefit from occasional watering during prolonged dry periods. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a slow-release fertilizer in early spring can help promote growth. The shrub is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 9 and can withstand temperatures as low as 0°F. Pruning is not necessary, but it can help maintain the shape of the plant.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cercocarpus Intricatus is generally a pest-free plant, but it can be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly draining soil. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering. The shrub is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust, which can be treated with a fungicide. Insect pests such as spider mites and aphids can occasionally infest the plant, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Cercocarpus Intricatus is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in rocky and dry mountainous areas. It is commonly found in desert canyons, foothills, and slopes at elevations ranging from 3,000 to 9,000 feet. The plant is adapted to dry conditions and is able to survive in areas with little rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cercocarpus Intricatus a good plant for xeriscaping?
A: Yes, Cercocarpus Intricatus is an excellent plant for xeriscaping as it is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering once established.
Q: Can Cercocarpus Intricatus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Cercocarpus Intricatus can be grown in containers, but it will require more frequent watering than if planted in the ground.
Q: Does Cercocarpus Intricatus attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the fragrant flowers of Cercocarpus Intricatus are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should Cercocarpus Intricatus be fertilized?
A: Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a slow-release fertilizer in early spring can help promote growth.
Related Plants
- Cercocarpus Ledifolius
- Cercocarpus Montanus
- Cercocarpus Traskiae
- Cercocarpus Betuloides
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/shrub/cerint/all.html
- https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/164867/
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/mountain-mahogany/growing-mountain-mahogany.htm
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CEIN2
