Rhamnaceae / Ceanothus prostratus / Mahala Mat

Being the first plant I learned in the Sierra Nevada, Ceanothus prostratus has always held a special place in my heart. Recently arrived from Hawai’i, I mistakenly took it to reference the Hawaiian word for umbrella with the same English spelling. It would be many years before I found out it’s supposedly based upon the Northern California Yokut word for woman (although I have heard that to be inaccurate as well!).

Whatever it’s origins, at least the mat portion is correct considering it’s decumbent form. Throughout the year, these plants literally blanket the entire northern range of Sierra Nevada. In some areas, it’s difficult to walk even a few steps off trail without encountering it’s welcoming presence.

Like many Ceanothus spp., C. prostratus is an excellent nitrogen fixer and soil stabilizer. While many of the genus are excellent at habitat restoration, I imagine, unlike other Ceanothus (looking at you C. cordulatus / Whitethorn), one reason Mahala Mat is preferred is due to it’s unobtrusive stature.

The inflorescence is umbel-like, with flowers ranging in color from blue to purple and lavender. Leaves are opposite and evergreen; reminiscent of many Oaks or our recent spotlight, Holly-Leafed Oregon Grape.

While it doesn’t have many human uses, one common use I can attest to is as a makeshift playpen. The center is be cleared out with your squirmy baby placed inside. When they try to crawl away, the pokiness of the leaves keeps them securely in their place! The perfect babysitter while mom and dad get stuff done!