Family: Rhamnaceae
Author: Benth.
Bibliography: Pl. Hartw.: 302 (1849)
Year: 1849
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Ceanothus
Vegetable: False
Observations: W. U.S.A.
Description
Mahala-mat, scientifically known as Ceanothus prostratus, is a captivating plant native to the western United States. This ground-hugging species belongs to the Rhamnaceae family and showcases a unique botanical presence.
First described in 1849 by noted botanist Benth., Mahala-mat is a perennial shrub that typically grows close to the ground in a prostrate manner. This growth pattern is particularly conducive to creating a dense mat of foliage, which can provide excellent ground cover in natural landscapes and gardens.
The plant’s leaves are modest in size, but their rich, green color contributes textural interest to various ecosystems across its range. Mahala-mat is particularly valued for its ability to thrive in diverse environments found throughout western North America, displaying a resilience that makes it an integral part of its native habitats.
Additionally, Ceanothus prostratus is appreciated for its ecological benefits. As a member of the Rhamnaceae family, it plays a role in supporting local biodiversity, offering habitat and forage for various insects and animals. The flowers of Mahala-mat, which bloom in delicate clusters, are a source of nectar for pollinators, including butterflies and bees, thereby contributing to the pollination of surrounding vegetation.
In landscaping, Mahala-mat is often utilized for erosion control due to its low-growing, spreading nature, which helps stabilize soil. Its ability to endure in rocky, well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade conditions makes it a versatile addition to garden designs, particularly in xeriscaping projects which aim to minimize water use.
In conclusion, Mahala-mat (Ceanothus prostratus) is a remarkable plant species with a historical legacy, ecological significance, and practical utility in horticulture. Its presence in western U.S. landscapes underscores its adaptability and value to both natural ecosystems and human-designed environments.
Common Names
Eng: mahala-mat, prostrate ceanothus, squaw carpet
En: Mahala-mat, Squaw carpet, Prostrate ceanothus, Mahala Mats, Squawcarpet
Synonyms
Distribution
- California (native)
- Idaho (native)
- Nevada (native)
- Oregon (native)
- Washington (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Sep 3, 2015 by EOL − Linda Morris (cc-by-nc)
Taken Feb 19, 2008 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Feb 19, 2008 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 23, 2019 by Marie-Noëlle (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 9, 2020 by L. Ruiz (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Oct 16, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 28, 2012 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 18, 2010 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jun 12, 2006 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 12, 2006 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Bark
Taken Apr 10, 2022 by Maarten Vanhove (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Jun 12, 2006 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 18, 2010 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jun 12, 2006 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Oct 16, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Oct 16, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Fruit
Taken Jan 18, 2010 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 18, 2010 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Feb 29, 2016 by EOL − Steven Thorsted (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 13, 2008 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Oct 16, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3039366)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30038049-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Ceanothus prostratus Benth.)
Specifications
Growth form>: Thicket Forming
Growth habit>: Shrub, Subshrub
Growth rate>: Slow
Growth
Ph maximum: 8.5
Ph minimum: 7.1