Entire-leaved Biond Hackberry (Celtis biondii var. holophylla)

Entire-leaved Biond's hackberry
Silhouette: T. Michael Keesey / License

Celtis biondii var. holophylla - Entire-Leaved Biond's Hackberry

Growing in the mountain forests of East Asia, Celtis biondii var. holophylla stands out among hackberries due to its distinctive leaf structure.

This deciduous tree variety represents a unique morphological adaptation within its geographic range. The plant plays an important role in local forest ecosystems, providing food and shelter for various birds and insects.

Taxonomy

  • царство Plantae
  • division Tracheophytes (Vascular Plants)
  • subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
  • Angiosperms
  • mesangiosperms
  • eudicots
  • Superrosids
  • rosids
  • order Rosales
  • family Cannabaceae (Hemp family)
  • genus Celtis (Hackberry)
  • species Celtis biondii (Biondi's hackberry)
  • variety Celtis biondii var. holophylla (Entire-leaved Biond Hackberry)

Living Pulse

Morphology

The botanical classification of this variety relies heavily on its leaf margin characteristics, which separate it from other forms of the species.

  • Leaves: The leaf blade is ovate to oblong-ovate, measuring 4–10 cm long, and is characterized by completely smooth, entire margins without any serration.
  • Bark: The trunk is covered in smooth, light grey to grey-brown bark that may develop shallow fissures as the tree ages.
  • Flowers: Small, inconspicuous wind-pollinated flowers are borne in the axils of young leaves during spring.
  • Fruit: Spherical drupes mature in autumn, turning yellow-orange and measuring approximately 5–7 mm in diameter.

Flowering season

Spring, typically April to May

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Applications

Wood from this hackberry variety is locally valued for its strength and durability, making it suitable for tool handles and agricultural implements.

The species is also utilized in watershed protection and afforestation programs due to its robust root system, which helps prevent soil erosion on steep slopes.

Interesting facts

The name holophylla comes from the Greek words for "whole leaf," directly referring to the lack of teeth on the margins of its foliage.

Many migratory birds rely on the ripening fruits of this tree during late autumn, helping to distribute seeds across different forest patches.

Geography of distribution

  • China
  • Taiwan

Sources

  • Plants of the World Online (POWO) - Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
  • Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)
  • Tropicos - Missouri Botanical Garden
  • World Flora Online (WFO)

Technical Information

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

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