Soyaux's hackberry (Celtis soyauxii)

African Celtis
Silhouette: T. Michael Keesey / License

Celtis soyauxii: Morphology, Habitat and Timber Uses

Flourishing in the dense lowland rainforests of West and Central Africa, Celtis soyauxii stands as a towering and vital component of the upper canopy. This substantial forest tree is highly regarded internationally for its robust timber and plays an integral role in maintaining forest biodiversity.

Botanists and ecologists study this species closely to understand its growth dynamics and contribution to the structural integrity of tropical forest 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 soyauxii (Soyaux's hackberry)

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Morphology

This species typically grows as a large canopy tree, reaching heights of up to 35 meters with a straight, cylindrical bole. The relatively smooth bark often exhibits a pale grayish or yellowish hue, setting it apart in the dense forest.

Key botanical features include:

  • Leaves: Simple, alternate, and characteristically asymmetrical at the base.
  • Fruits: Small, globose drupes that provide sustenance for various arboreal frugivores.
  • Stature: Heavy, prominent branching forming a dense, widespread crown.

Applications

The primary economic value of this species lies in its wood, commercially traded as African celtis. The pale yellow to whitish timber exhibits a fine, even texture suitable for various industrial uses.

  • Construction: Widely used for light construction, flooring, and interior joinery.
  • Manufacturing: An excellent source for rotary-cut veneer and commercial plywood.
  • Traditional Uses: Local communities utilize various parts of the tree, including the bark, in traditional medicinal practices.

Interesting facts

The wood of Celtis soyauxii has a notable tendency to blue-stain if not dried rapidly after logging. The extensive root system helps prevent soil erosion in areas with heavy tropical rainfall.

Geography of distribution

  • Cameroon
  • Democratic Republic of the Congo
  • Gabon

Sources

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

Technical Information

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

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