Pale spiny hackberry (Celtis spinosa var. pallida)

Desert hackberry Spiny hackberry Granjeno Shiny hackberry
Silhouette: T. Michael Keesey / License

Celtis spinosa var. pallida - Desert Spiny Hackberry Profile

Thriving in the arid regions of the Americas, Celtis spinosa var. pallida serves as a vital resource for desert wildlife.

This thorny shrub adapts perfectly to hot, dry climates. Its dense growth provides excellent nesting sites for birds, while its juicy berries feed various animal 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 spinosa (Spiny hackberry)
  • variety Celtis spinosa var. pallida (Pale spiny hackberry)

Living Pulse

Morphology

This plant is highly adapted to xerophytic environments, displaying several morphological specializations to reduce water loss and deter herbivores.

  • Thorns: The zigzag branches are armed with sharp, stout thorns that help protect the plant from grazing animals.
  • Leaves: The leaves are small, typically under 3 cm in length, ovate, and have a somewhat rough texture with slightly serrated or entire margins.
  • Flowers: Small, inconspicuous flowers bloom in clusters of three to five, producing pollen carried by the wind or insects.
  • Fruit: Juicy, egg-shaped drupes measure around 7 mm in diameter, turning bright orange, yellow, or red when fully ripe.

Flowering season

Spring to Autumn, often triggered by rainfall

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Name
Dec

Applications

The sweet, juicy drupes are edible and have been historically harvested by indigenous peoples to be eaten fresh or prepared into preserves.

Due to its high drought tolerance and dense structure, it is frequently used in xeriscaping, wildlife gardens, and for erosion control in dry soils.

Interesting facts

In Spanish-speaking regions, this plant is commonly known as granjeno, and it is a preferred nesting site for desert birds due to its protective thorns.

The fruits are not only sweet but also rich in nutrients, making them a critical survival food for desert wildlife during dry seasons.

Geography of distribution

  • United States
  • Mexico
  • Argentina

Sources

  • Plants of the World Online (POWO) - Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
  • Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)
  • Tropicos - Missouri Botanical Garden
  • World Flora Online (WFO)
  • Flora of North America (FNA)

Technical Information

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

Смотрите также

True Araucarias

True Araucarias

Araucaria sect. Araucaria

Araucaria sect. Araucaria is a botanical section of evergreen conifers native to South America. It …