Malagasy hackberry (Celtis madagascariensis)

Celtis madagascariensis: Endemic Tree of Madagascar

Endemic to the rich and isolated ecosystems of Madagascar, this small deciduous tree enhances the island's unique biodiversity. It typically reaches a modest height of 7 to 10 meters and belongs to the hemp family, Cannabaceae. Formally described by botanist A. Sattarian in 2005, it establishes itself prominently along forest margins. Its native range extends across the northern, western, and southwestern parts of the island, adapting to elevations up to 1,200 meters.

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 madagascariensis (Malagasy hackberry)

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Morphology

The main trunk is characterized by smooth bark that varies in color from whitish to grey. Its foliage consists of alternate, simple leaves that possess an ovate-elliptic shape, generally measuring 7 to 10 centimeters in length by 2.5 to 3 centimeters in width. The floral structures emerge on axillary inflorescences that can be as long as or slightly longer than the leaf petioles.

This species bears both male and hermaphrodite flowers, which display a creamy hue and are supported by tender, glabrous pedicels extending 3 to 5 millimeters. Each flower is composed of five hairless sepals and an equal number of stamens. Following pollination, it produces a broadly ellipsoid drupe, approximately 12 by 8 millimeters in size. The fruit transitions from a green shade to red or brown as it matures, enclosing a single seed.

Interesting facts

The spatial distribution of its flowers is notably organized along the branches. The lower inflorescences typically consist solely of male flowers or a combination of male and a few hermaphrodite flowers, whereas the upper inflorescences may lack male flowers entirely and present only hermaphrodite ones. This specific reproductive strategy highlights its specialized adaptation within the Malagasy forest margins.

Geography of distribution

  • Madagascar

Sources

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

Technical Information

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

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