1. Catalina Isl. Mountain Mahogany–Cercocarpus traskiae (SIR-co-CARP-us TRASK-ee-eye
Family: Rosaceae (Rose Family)
Native to: Endemic to Santa Catalina Island – only a few populations left in the wild; rocky slopes of
a steep-sided, narrow, dry arroyo in coastal sage scrub community.
woody shrub/tree
mature height: 10-18 ft.
mature width: 10-12 ft.
Large evergreen shrub to small tree. Branches erect to spreading. Leathery oval leaves are very
hairy beneath. Quite dense foliage. Long-lived are fairly slow-growing. Similar to C. montanus.
Growth characteristics:
Blooms in spring – usually Mar-May but may be even earlier. Small flowers lack
petals. You might not know this plant is in bloom except for the pollinators that flock to it. Seeds
have showy long plume – plant is very attractive when these are present.
Blooms/fruits:
Uses in the garden: Used as an accent or yard tree in dry gardens. Can be hedged and makes a
nice hedge, windbreak or narrow screen. Can be combined with other shrubs for a hedgerow.
Great for seaside or hot gardens. Good on slopes, along roadways. Can even be espaliered along
a wall or trellis. Excellent choice for Channel Island themed gardens.
Sensible substitute for: Non-native evergreen shrubs (particularly those that are water-guzzlers).
Attracts: Excellent bird habitat: provides cover, nest sites and seeds for food. Attracts pollinators.
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Other
Requirement
Full sun to part-shade (afternoon shade).
Well-drained – sandy or rocky is best.
Zone 1-2 (very occasional; will be drought deciduous) to Zone 2 (deep water when
soil becomes dry). Drought tolerant when established. Don’t over-water.
None needed.
Does fine with neglect, but can be shaped, pruned and hedged. Prune/hedge in
Spring/ summer. Remove suckers soon. Can be coppiced to rejuvenate old plant in late fall/winter.
Management:
Propagation: from seed: long cold-wet treatment
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 8
by cuttings: semi-soft in fall
2/23/10
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