Ituri Hackberry (Celtis ituriensis)

Silhouette: T. Michael Keesey / License

Celtis ituriensis: Botanical Profile and Habitat

Native to the dense tropical forests of Central Africa, this intriguing species takes its specific epithet from the Ituri region in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It belongs to the diverse Cannabaceae family, sharing its lineage with various other significant woody plants.

The presence of this tree contributes to the complex ecological network of its native habitat. Like many related forest species, it plays a vital role in supporting local biodiversity and maintaining the structural integrity of regional ecosystems.

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 ituriensis (Ituri Hackberry)

Living Pulse

Powered by iNaturalist

Morphology

Tropical representatives of the genus Celtis are generally distinguished by an impressive, often deciduous foliage consisting of simple leaves with a highly characteristic asymmetric base. The primary veins are strongly marked on the leaf blade, offering a distinct texture to the touch. The trunk bark tends to display a smooth surface that subtly fissures over time. The inflorescences, although visually inconspicuous, give rise to fleshy drupaceous fruits typical of this botanical lineage.

Interesting facts

The specific epithet ituriensis serves as a direct geographical reference to the Ituri Province, a region renowned for its dense rainforests and rich biological diversity.

Geography of distribution

  • Democratic Republic of the Congo

Sources

  • POWO (Plants of the World Online): Geographic distribution and taxonomic status.
  • GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility): Occurrence data and classification.

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 →