Smooth-leaved hackberry (Celtis glabrata)

Dahum Kuchuk-agach
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Celtis glabrata: Morphology, Habitat, and Characteristics

Clinging to the sun-baked, rocky inland cliffs of southeastern Europe and western Asia, a resilient botanical survivor defies the harshness of its arid surroundings. Celtis glabrata is a hardy deciduous shrub or small tree belonging to the Cannabaceae family, uniquely adapted to thrive at elevations up to 1,000 meters. Often found braving dry mountain slopes, it forms an integral part of rugged local ecosystems.

This rare plant is notable for its smooth bark and compact growth habit, typically reaching heights of two to four meters, though it can occasionally grow up to fifteen meters. The presence of Celtis glabrata adds a touch of yellowish-green foliage to stark landscapes extending from the Crimean Peninsula through the Caucasus and into the Middle East.

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 glabrata (Smooth-leaved hackberry)

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Morphology

The physical structure of Celtis glabrata is characterized by a compact and resilient form, perfectly suited for rocky environments. The trunk features smooth, grayish-brown bark, while the young shoots emerge with a distinctive light brown or brownish-green hue.

  • Leaves: The foliage is leathery, ovate or rhombic-acute, measuring about four to seven centimeters in length. They display a yellowish-green color, are generally glabrous, and have finely toothed margins with a cuneate to almost cordate base.
  • Flowers: Small and inconspicuous blossoms emerge during the spring, supported by bare, sturdy stalks.
  • Fruit: It bears spherical, reddish drupes that are one to two centimeters long. These distinctive fruits sit atop long stalks and contain a slightly wrinkled, rounded stone.

Flowering season

Blooms in the spring, typically during April and May.

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Interesting facts

The botanical and regional history of Celtis glabrata presents several captivating details, particularly regarding its ecological rarity and cultural naming.

  • Regional Rarity: In Azerbaijan, this species is considered a rare botanical treasure and is recommended for inclusion in the national Red Book. Its isolated populations are highly vulnerable to both human activity and abiotic factors.
  • Cultural Nomenclature: In Turkey, the tree is commonly known by the local traditional name dahum, reflecting its historical integration into the regional natural heritage.
  • Taxonomic History: The specific epithet glabrata references the characteristically smooth, hairless nature of its mature foliage and fruit stalks, distinguishing it from closely related species.

Geography of distribution

  • Bulgaria
  • Romania
  • North Macedonia
  • Greece
  • Ukraine
  • Russia
  • Armenia
  • Azerbaijan
  • Georgia
  • Turkey
  • Lebanon
  • Syria
  • Iran
  • Iraq

Sources

Technical Information

Taxon Synonyms: Celtis planchoniana

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

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