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Cercocarpus intricatus

Common Name Little-Leaf Mountain Mahogany
Family Rosaceae (Rose Family)

Description

This intricately-branching shrub can reach heights of up to 2 meters. Leaves are 3-18 mm long and very thing; needlelike; oblong to linear.

Range

This shrub is found in most counties in Utah, as well as in California, Nevada and Arizona. Elevation: 4,000 - 8,500ft.

Culture

Like most members of this genus, intricatus prefers a well drained soil (bordering on rocky) and full sun when possible. This is a slow-growing shrub. Zones 3 - 8.

Value

A superior shrub that forms a compact crown of amazingly small, fine-textured foliage; like other Cercocarpus, has a plumed, spiral seed that is quite attractive. Uncommon in trade.

Propagation

Seed can be collected by shaking the plant and catching the seed on a tarp. Most Cercocarpus species seeds require pre-chilling of some sort to induce germination. To start seed indoors soak in hydrogen peroxide (from the market) for 24 hours. Rinse and put in cold treatment for 30 days. Sow into container and cover to depth. To start outdoors, sow several seed in the desired location in the fall and cover with ¼" soil. Germination should occur the following spring. Take precautions as mice like this seed.