Cercocarpus montanus (Alderleaf Mountain Mahogany) is a resilient woody shrub found growing in the lower mountain regions of the West (central Rockies and Sierras from California to Washington). It thrives in dry, rocky soils and is extremely heat and drought tolerant, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and a valuable addition to restoration projects in arid regions. Cercocarpus montanus is much larger than C. intricatus

Cercocarpus montanus is a larval host plant for Mountain Mahogany Hairstreak butterflies, and a food source for adult Western sheepmoths.

Cercocarpus montanus is a crucial forage plant for deer and bighorn sheep – but these rugged plants don’t mind being munched. This plant can withstand cutting, fire, drought and heavy browsing.