Brazilian hackberry
Celtis brasiliensis
A deciduous tree or scrambling shrub in the Cannabaceae family, native to various countries in …
Inscribed Hackberry (Celtis opegrapha)
African hackberry
Каркас африканский
Silhouette: T. Michael Keesey
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Celtis opegrapha (African Hackberry): Botanical Profile
Documented by botanical authorities under the regional common name African hackberry, Celtis opegrapha thrives as a wild tree species. This plant belongs to the genus Celtis, a diverse group of deciduous trees and shrubs.
As indicated by its common name, it is associated with African flora and shares the ecological traits typical of hackberries. Global biodiversity databases officially list it as an accepted species.
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 opegrapha (Inscribed Hackberry)
Morphology
The tree often reaches impressive heights and develops a strong, straight trunk. The bark is typically light gray and relatively smooth, but displays prominent horizontal ridges and protuberances with age.
The leaves are alternate, simple, and feature the asymmetrical base characteristic of the genus. They possess prominent veins and often turn brilliant yellow before leaf fall.
The flowers are tiny, greenish, and mostly inconspicuous. They develop into small, round drupes hanging from long stalks that turn dark brown to reddish upon maturity.
Interesting facts
- Some African hackberries are considered spiritually significant in various local cultures and are often planted as shade trees at gathering places.
- Under certain weather conditions, the leaves can serve as a primary food source for various butterfly caterpillars.
- Although they are now classified among the Cannabaceae, the leaves exhibit clear morphological similarities to those of elms (Ulmus).
Geography of distribution
- Южно-Африканская Республика
- Кения
- Танзания
Sources
- Plants of the World Online (POWO)
- Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)
- iNaturalist
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