Wedge-leaved hackberry (Celtis gomphophylla)

Rough-leaved stinkwood Growweblaarstinkhout
#586257
#5D6054
#5C5F65
#30302B
#2F3530

Celtis gomphophylla: Habitat, Morphology, and Conservation

Extensively distributed across sub-Saharan Africa, Madagascar, and the Comoros, Celtis gomphophylla grows as a prominent canopy component in its native habitats. It inhabits a wide variety of ecosystems, ranging from humid tropical lowland and montane forests to dry forests, thickets, and wooded grasslands.

This tree can be found at elevations between 20 and 1500 meters, demonstrating remarkable ecological adaptability. The species was first described scientifically in 1887 by John Gilbert Baker and remains a significant member of the Cannabaceae family.

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 gomphophylla (Wedge-leaved hackberry)

Living Pulse

Powered by iNaturalist

Morphology

Celtis gomphophylla is a substantial tree that reaches impressive heights ranging from 5 to 35 meters. The common name suggests a distinctly textured leaf surface, while the foliage is characterized by simple, alternate leaves.

It produces small seeds that contribute to the diet of local wildlife. This ecological interaction aids in the natural dispersal of the species across its expansive range.

Applications

In parts of its native range, the tree is heavily utilized for its timber. The wood is harvested for various construction and woodworking purposes, which has led to over-exploitation in certain localized areas.

Interesting facts

  • The species has a massive estimated extent of occurrence covering over 15.5 million square kilometers across the African continent.
  • Despite its wide distribution, it faces localized threats from logging, agricultural conversion, and human-caused fires.

Geography of distribution

  • Angola
  • Cameroon
  • Central African Republic
  • Republic of the Congo
  • Democratic Republic of the Congo
  • Côte d'Ivoire
  • Ethiopia
  • Kenya
  • Liberia
  • Madagascar
  • Malawi
  • Mozambique
  • Nigeria
  • Rwanda
  • South Africa
  • South Sudan
  • Sudan
  • Tanzania
  • Togo
  • Uganda
  • Zambia
  • Zimbabwe

Sources

  • Plants of the World Online (POWO)
  • Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)
  • Sanbi Red List

Technical Information

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

Смотрите также

Orange hackberry

Orange hackberry

Celtis aurantiaca

A deciduous tree species native to Korea, recognized by its large leaves with caudate-acuminate tips …

Read more →