Douglas's hackberry (Celtis douglasii)

Douglas hackberry
Silhouette: T. Michael Keesey / License

Celtis douglasii: Morphology, Uses, and Botanical Facts

Botanists recognize Celtis douglasii by its characteristic foliage and resilient growth habit. This plant forms an integral part of its natural ecosystem by supporting diverse wildlife populations. Its ability to withstand challenging environmental pressures makes it a subject of interest in ecological studies.

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 douglasii (Douglas's hackberry)

Living Pulse

Morphology

Specimens usually present a strong, branching architecture with distinctively ridged or corky bark. The leaves exhibit prominent reticulate venation and rough surfaces. Flowering occurs in the form of small, greenish blossoms that later yield characteristic drupes containing a single hard seed.

Applications

The species acts as an excellent windbreak and soil stabilizer in natural landscapes. Various bird species depend on the ripe drupes for nutrition during late summer and autumn. The resilient wood structure allows it to withstand strong winds.

Interesting facts

  • Historical records indicate that indigenous populations occasionally utilized the fruits for sustenance.
  • The rough texture of the leaves provides a unique tactile identification feature.
  • It demonstrates remarkable drought tolerance once the root system fully establishes.

Geography of distribution

  • United States

Sources

  • Tropicos
  • Plants of the World Online (POWO)
  • Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)

Technical Information

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

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