Cercocarpus ledifolius
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Cercocarpus ledifolius is a North American species of mountain mahogany known by the common name curl-leaf mountain mahogany.
Description
Cercocarpus ledifolius is a large, densely branching tree which can reach heights of Script error: No such module "convert"., although it is not uncommon to find the adult plant as a shrub as short as Script error: No such module "convert".. Its leathery, sticky, dark green leaves are up to Script error: No such module "convert". long and lance-shaped, and the edges may curl under. The flower consists of a small tan tube from which protrudes a long, plumelike style covered in luxuriant tan hairs. The flowers are arranged in inflorescences of up to 3. The fruit is a hairy achene .5–1 cm long.
Cercocarpus ledifolius is slow-growing, sometimes taking up to a century to reach full height. The oldest specimens are thought to be around 1,350 years old, although the primary specimen that yielded this estimate was cut down.[1] This makes it one of the longest-lived known flowering plants.
Distribution and habitat
The species is widespread across much of the Western United States as well as Baja California in Mexico.[2][3] It can be found at elevations ranging from Script error: No such module "convert"., with the preferred altitude varying depending on the region. It prefers shallow, well-drained soils with a sandy or grainy consistency, and is generally found in areas which receive only Script error: No such module "convert". annual precipitation.[4] This makes it common on low mountains and slopes,[5][3] where it grows in scattered groves among other drought-resistant species such as pinyon pines, junipers and sagebrush.
Ecology
The leaves are eaten by deer year-round.[6]
Uses
The Gosiute Native Americans used the wood to make their bows.[6] The species has many medicinal uses for various Native American groups, such as the Paiute and Shoshone.
References
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- ↑ Script error: No such module "Citation/CS1".
- ↑ Biota of North America Program 2014 county distribution map
- ↑ a b Flora of North America, Cercocarpus ledifolius Nuttall in J. Torrey and A. Gray, 1840. Curl-leaf mountain mahogany
- ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
- ↑ Calflora taxon report, University of California, Cercocarpus ledifolius Nutt. Desert mountainmahogany, curl leaf mountain mahogany
- ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
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External links
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- Jepson Manual Treatment of Cercocarpus ledifolius
- ledifolius.pdf United States Department of Agriculture IITF description; Cercocarpus ledifolius
- Ethnobotany, University of Michigan
- Template:CalPhotos
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