Korean hackberry (Celtis choseniana)

Black-fruit hackberry

Celtis choseniana (Black-fruit hackberry): Habitat and Characteristics

Native to the temperate regions of East Asia, Celtis choseniana flourishes as an ecologically significant tree widely recognized as the Black-fruit hackberry. Botanically classified within the Cannabaceae family, it contributes substantially to the structural diversity of the forest ecosystems in which it naturally occurs. In modern taxonomic literature, it is frequently treated as a synonym of the closely related Celtis jessoensis.

This deciduous woody plant was historically detailed by the prominent Japanese botanist Takenoshin Nakai. Its natural range encompasses the Japanese archipelago and the Korean Peninsula, demonstrating excellent resilience and adaptability to regional seasonal changes.

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 choseniana (Korean hackberry)

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Morphology

Developing into a moderately sized tree, this species features a distinctly branching canopy characteristic of its genus. The foliage consists of simple, alternate leaves that typically display serrated margins and distinct venation.

As the common name implies, it produces small, spherical drupes that transition to a dark, almost black hue upon reaching maturity. These fleshy fruits are an integral part of its reproductive cycle and serve as a reliable, nutrient-rich food source for the local avian fauna.

Interesting facts

  • The specific epithet choseniana was selected to reflect its geographical association with the Korean Peninsula, historically referred to as Chosen.
  • Its fruit production plays a crucial role in local wildlife ecology by attracting various fruit-eating birds that assist in natural seed dispersal.
  • Modern botanical databases, including the World Flora Online and POWO, predominantly align this specific taxon under the accepted name Celtis jessoensis.

Geography of distribution

  • Japan
  • North Korea
  • South Korea

Sources

  • Plants of the World Online (POWO)
  • GBIF
  • Catalogue of Life

Technical Information

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

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