Fine-toothed Western Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis var. serrulata)

Serrulate hackberry

Silhouette: T. Michael Keesey / License

Celtis occidentalis var. serrulata - Serrulate Hackberry Guide

Characterized by its intensely and finely serrated leaf margins, the deciduous tree classified as Celtis occidentalis var. serrulata grows naturally throughout central and eastern North American forests. This variety is typically found on rich, moist soils near streams, rocky slopes, and low woodlands. It develops a rounded, spreading crown with mature height similar to the typical species.

This tree supports diverse insect populations, serving as a food source for caterpillars of the hackberry butterfly and snout butterfly. Its fruits are eagerly consumed by wintering songbirds, aiding in seed distribution. The deep roots help anchor soil, preventing erosion in riparian zones.

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 occidentalis (Common Hackberry)
∟ variety Celtis occidentalis var. serrulata (Fine-toothed Western Hackberry)

Morphology

Growing to heights of 15 to 25 meters, this tree exhibits a sturdy trunk and spreading branches. The bark is grey and possesses the signature corky warts and ridges characteristic of the genus. Young branches are green and puberulent, turning grey-brown as they mature.

Key morphological features of the leaves and fruits include:

Leaf shape: The leaves are ovate to ovate-lanceolate, measuring 5 to 10 centimeters long, with an acuminate tip and an asymmetrical, rounded base.
Leaf margins: The margins are finely, closely, and sharply serrate (serrulate) almost to the base, which distinguishes it from other varieties.
Leaf texture: The upper surface is dark green and slightly rough, while the lower surface is lighter and glabrous or sparsely pubescent.
Drupes: The dark purple, spherical drupes measure 6 to 9 millimeters in diameter, containing a single hard-shelled seed within thin, sweetish pulp.

Flowering season

Spring

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Name

Dec

Applications

Its wood is strong and used for rough lumber, fencing, and fuel. The variety is occasionally selected for urban landscaping and park planting because of its resilience to wind and air pollution. It is also utilized in environmental restoration to stabilize slopes and riverbanks.

In addition, conservation plantings benefit from its high ecological value. It attracts birds, beneficial insects, and small mammals, enriching local biodiversity. Landowners use it in shelterbelts and windbreaks in rural areas.

Interesting facts

The varietal epithet serrulata refers directly to the finely saw-toothed margins of the leaves. Many species of birds, such as the cedar waxwing and American robin, rely heavily on the persistent winter fruits for energy. The hard seeds have been found in archaeological sites across North America, suggesting historical human consumption and use.

Geography of distribution

United States
Canada

Sources

Plants of the World Online (POWO): Serves as the primary reference for taxonomy.
Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF): Provides geographic distribution and occurrence data.
World Flora Online (WFO): Supplies synonymy and botanical records.