Cercocarpus betuloides

For an interesting show in fall, try the Cercocarpus for their 2-3" plumose fruits, like the curled hat-feathers of bygone days; small, wedge-shaped leaves of this arching shrub (to 10') are white beneath; drought tolerant. S/D/GDr

Mountain mahogany is an erect, open, slow-growing shrub or small tree growing 10-15' tall x 6' wide, but can be pruned back to more compact sizes with judicious fall cutting. Looking for an upright, prune-able shrub for a narrow planting area, side yard, screen, or hedge? This is it! A quietly colorful plant with smooth gray bark, reddish gray branches, green to grayish green, softly hairy leaves, and tiny yellow flowers followed by feather-like seeds that decorate the plant. Atop each seed is a 1- to 2" long curled plume that is covered with stiff white hairs. If possible, plant in a backlit location to appreciate this plant's unusual, silvery, glittering appearance when in seed! Native to California and is also found outside of California, but is confined to western North America. Butterflies like the flowers and many small birds (particularly quail) love the dense vegetation for cover. Native American Californians used the hard wood for arrows, digging, spearing fish, and digging. The inner bark was used to make a purple dye and could also be used to treat colds. Found in dry rocky bluffs or mountain sides. Communitites located in Chaparral, Northern Oak Woodland, Yellow Pine Forest Between 0 and 8202 feet.

A small tree to 20' with a wide spread, but commonly found in a shrubby form as a member of the chaparral. Leaves are dark olive-green above and pale beneath, with feathery veining and toothed edges. Old plants often become coarse and unattractive, but can be cut back to the base to resprout and regain a tighter form. Thrives in many soil types and is drought tolerant, but occasional summer irrigation will improve its appearance. The fruits bear a long, plumose, twisted, persistent style that adds to the plant's garden appeal. Hardy to 20F. California.