Mountain Mahogany
Cercocarpus montanus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Cercocarpus montanus is a drought-tolerant native shrub found across the western United States from Wyoming to Texas. This mountain mahogany blooms from March through May and attracts butterflies and moths.
Mountain Mahogany is listed as toxic to grazing livestock (cattle, sheep, and goats) at a moderate level by the USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab). This is a livestock indicator and is separate from pet toxicity.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
96"–240" H × 96"–240" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
AZ, CO, ID, NE and 7 more states
Pollinators
butterflies, moths
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Mountain Mahogany is a drought-tolerant native shrub that develops into a substantial, rounded form over time. It produces small spring flowers followed by distinctive feathery seed plumes that catch the light beautifully. This low-maintenance plant thrives in full sun and requires minimal water once established.
Growing Mountain Mahogany
Grow Mountain Mahogany in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 96 to 240 inches tall and spread 96 to 240 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Mountain Mahogany takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Height exceeds typical HOA-friendly range
Wildlife value
The spring blooms attract butterflies and moths, while the seeds provide food for birds. Its dense branching structure offers nesting sites and shelter for various wildlife species.
Common questions
- Where does Cercocarpus montanus naturally grow?
- Mountain mahogany is native to 11 western states including Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming.
- When does mountain mahogany bloom?
- Cercocarpus montanus typically blooms from March through May in its native range.
- What pollinators visit mountain mahogany?
- This native shrub attracts butterflies and moths during its blooming period.
- How much water does Cercocarpus montanus need?
- Mountain mahogany is well-adapted to low water conditions and is considered drought-tolerant once established.
- Is Mountain Mahogany toxic to livestock?
- Mountain Mahogany is listed as toxic to grazing livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats (moderate severity) by the USDA PLANTS Database. This is separate from pet (dog and cat) toxicity.
- Is Mountain Mahogany HOA-friendly?
- Mountain Mahogany takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Does Mountain Mahogany fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.