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Description
Cercocarpus Montanus Var. Glaber is a small evergreen shrub that belongs to the rose family. It is also known as smooth-mountain mahogany and is native to the southwestern region of the United States. The plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It has a dense, compact growth habit and produces small clusters of white flowers in the spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Cercocarpus |
Appearance
Cercocarpus Montanus Var. Glaber has a dark green, glossy foliage that is leathery to the touch. The leaves are 1-2 inches long and are oval-shaped with a pointed tip. The plant produces small white flowers in the spring that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The flowers are followed by small, woody fruits that are covered in long, white hairs. The bark of the plant is smooth and grayish-brown in color.
Care Guide
Cercocarpus Montanus Var. Glaber is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Reduce watering in the winter months.
Fertilization: Apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring. Do not fertilize in the fall or winter.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cercocarpus Montanus Var. Glaber is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly drained soil. Other potential problems include spider mites and scale insects.
Habitat
Cercocarpus Montanus Var. Glaber is native to the southwestern region of the United States, including Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. It grows in rocky, mountainous areas and is often found in chaparral and oak woodlands.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cercocarpus Montanus Var. Glaber a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, the plant is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Does Cercocarpus Montanus Var. Glaber attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the plant attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Cercocarpus Montanus Var. Glaber be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with adequate drainage.
Q: How often should Cercocarpus Montanus Var. Glaber be pruned?
A: The plant does not require regular pruning. Prune as needed to maintain its shape or remove any dead or damaged branches.
Related Plants
- Cercocarpus Ledifolius
- Cercocarpus Traskiae
- Cercocarpus Betuloides
- Cercocarpus Trifidus
References
- “Cercocarpus Montanus.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CEROM.
- “Cercocarpus Montanus.” USDA Forest Service, www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/shrub/cermont/all.html.
- “Smooth-Mountain Mahogany (Cercocarpus Montanus).” Arizona State University, https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapaiplants/SpeciesDetail.php?genus=Cercocarpus&species=montanus.
