Birchleaf Mountain Mahogany
Cercocarpus betuloides
Last reviewed: July 2026
Cercocarpus betuloides is a drought-tolerant evergreen shrub native to Arizona, California, and Oregon that blooms from April through June. This birchleaf mountain mahogany thrives in full sun and attracts bees and beetles.
Birchleaf Mountain Mahogany (Cercocarpus betuloides) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
36"–180" H × 36"–120" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AZ, CA, OR
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Mountain mahogany is a drought-tolerant evergreen shrub with small, distinctive leaves that have serrated edges. It grows relatively slowly into a dense, upright form that can reach 15 feet tall in optimal conditions. The plant produces unusual feathery seed plumes that add visual interest in summer.
Growing Birchleaf Mountain Mahogany
Grow Birchleaf Mountain Mahogany in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 36 to 180 inches tall and spread 36 to 120 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Birchleaf Mountain Mahogany is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, street edge.
- Can appear somewhat woody/leggy if not occasionally pruned
- Feathery seed plumes may be considered messy by some HOAs
Wildlife value
Supports various bee species and beetles during its spring bloom period. The dense growth habit provides good shelter for birds and small wildlife.
Common questions
- Where does Cercocarpus betuloides naturally grow?
- Birchleaf mountain mahogany is native to Arizona, California, and Oregon, typically found in chaparral, woodland, and forest communities.
- When does birchleaf mountain mahogany bloom?
- Cercocarpus betuloides blooms from April through June, producing small clusters of white to cream-colored flowers.
- What pollinators visit Cercocarpus betuloides?
- The flowers of birchleaf mountain mahogany attract bees and beetles, which serve as important pollinators for this native shrub.
- What growing conditions does birchleaf mountain mahogany prefer?
- This drought-tolerant shrub thrives in full sun conditions and requires very little water once established, making it well-suited for xeriscaping.
- Is Birchleaf Mountain Mahogany toxic to dogs?
- Birchleaf Mountain Mahogany is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Birchleaf Mountain Mahogany toxic to cats?
- Birchleaf Mountain Mahogany is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Birchleaf Mountain Mahogany HOA-friendly?
- Birchleaf Mountain Mahogany is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Birchleaf Mountain Mahogany? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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