Holtz's hackberry (Celtis holtzii)

African Hackberry
Silhouette: T. Michael Keesey / License

Celtis holtzii (African Hackberry): Morphology and Distribution

Within the forest massifs of Tanzania and adjacent territories grows Celtis holtzii, widely known as the African Hackberry. This woody plant serves as an important component of regional ecosystems, providing essential shade and sustenance for numerous wild fauna species.

The tree is naturally adapted to the tropical climate and is encountered exclusively in wild habitats. Its distribution remains largely restricted to the eastern part of the African continent.

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 holtzii (Holtz's hackberry)

Living Pulse

Powered by iNaturalist

Morphology

The plant typically forms a spreading canopy supported by branches covered in dense bark. The leaves of Celtis holtzii feature prominent venation and the classic asymmetrical basal structure commonly associated with the genus.

Upon finishing its flowering cycle, the tree produces spherical drupes containing a single hard seed. During the ripening phase, these fleshy fruits attract a variety of tropical birds that facilitate the natural dispersal of seeds across the forest floor.

Applications

This species primarily fulfills an ecological function by supporting the biodiversity of African tropical forests. Its sturdy wood is occasionally harvested by local communities for construction purposes or the crafting of traditional tools.

Interesting facts

  • The English common name is associated with the unpleasant odor of freshly cut wood, which, however, completely disappears after drying.
  • The abundance of fruit attracts huge flocks of birds to the tree canopies, including pigeons, mousebirds, and various bulbuls.
  • The foliage serves as food for the caterpillars of several African butterfly species, including rare nymphalids.

Geography of distribution

  • Tanzania

Sources

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

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 →