Cercocarpus montanus, commonly known as mountain mahogany, is a species of small to medium-sized deciduous shrub or small tree native to the western United States and northern Mexico. Here's a detailed description:
Appearance:
Mountain mahogany typically grows between 6 to 20 feet tall, though it can occasionally reach up to 30 feet in height.
It has a dense, rounded crown with slender, spreading branches.
The leaves are small, narrow, and often clustered, with a leathery texture and a gray-green color. They are usually about 1 to 2 inches long and linear or lanceolate in shape.
The bark is smooth and gray when young, becoming fissured and scaly with age.
Flowers:
Mountain mahogany produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are yellowish-green to whitish in color.
The flowers are borne in dense clusters at the tips of branches and appear in spring to early summer.
Fruit:
After flowering, mountain mahogany develops seed-like fruits called achenes. These fruits are small, dry, and have a tuft of hairs at one end, aiding in wind dispersal.
Habitat:
It is commonly found in dry, rocky slopes, canyons, and foothills, often in areas with limestone or other alkaline soils.
Mountain mahogany is well-adapted to arid and semi-arid environments and is tolerant of drought and poor soils.
Ecological Importance:
This plant species provides important habitat and food for wildlife, including birds and small mammals.
Its dense growth habit can also help stabilize soil on slopes and prevent erosion.
Cultural Significance:
Mountain mahogany has historically been used by indigenous peoples for various purposes, including as a source of medicine, for making tools, and for fuel.
Landscaping and Gardening:
Due to its attractive foliage and ability to tolerate harsh growing conditions, mountain mahogany is sometimes cultivated for use in landscaping and restoration projects in dry climates.
Hardy in zones 5-10.

Growing instructions for the Mountain Mahogany

The seeds have a period of dormancy. They can be planted outdoors in the spring or summer and they will germinate the next spring or they can be cold stratified to simulate winter conditions and to break their dormancy at any time of the year. 1. Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours. 2. Put the seeds in a ziplock bag. 3. Put the bag in the refrigerator and leave it there for 90 days. 4. The seeds like well-drained soil. Prepare a mixture of half potting soil and half sand, perlite or vermiculite. 5. Put the soil in a pot. 6. Sow the seeds 1/4 of an inch deep. 7. Water the soil so that it is moist but not wet. 8. When the seedlings are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted.