Mulberry-leaved hackberry (Celtis morifolia)

Hackberry Nettle Tree
Silhouette: T. Michael Keesey / License

Celtis morifolia: Plant Taxonomy and Details

Classified alongside other well-known hackberries, Celtis morifolia adds to the extensive diversity of its encompassing genus. The specific botanical epithet morifolia serves as an indicator that its foliage likely bears a structural resemblance to the leaves of a mulberry tree. This species exhibits the characteristic woody growth habit found among related angiosperms recognized as Celtis.

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 morifolia (Mulberry-leaved hackberry)

Living Pulse

Powered by iNaturalist

Morphology

The epithet morifolia is a clear morphological indicator, as it denotes that the leaves of this plant bear a striking resemblance to those of the genus Morus (mulberries). Typically, the leaf blades feature markedly serrated margins and a rough texture to the touch. The reproductive cycle culminates in the formation of small coriaceous drupes housing an extremely hard seed inside.

Interesting facts

The morphological similarity of the leaves to those of the genus Morus has occasionally led to taxonomic confusion during casual observations in the past. Like other related trees, this species contributes significantly to biodiversity conservation by providing food for wildlife.

Sources

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

Technical Information

External Databases: 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 →