Strychnine hackberry (Celtis strychnoides)

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Celtis strychnoides: Botanical Profile and Ecology

Found within the diverse botanical group of hackberries, Celtis strychnoides exhibits the characteristic woody growth habit of its genus. It shares the defining asymmetrical leaf structure that helps identify these trees in their natural habitats.

Members of this group are widely recognized for their ecological roles, providing essential food and shelter for local fauna through their foliage and fruit production.

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 strychnoides (Strychnine hackberry)

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Morphology

This species generally produces simple, alternate leaves with characteristic uneven bases. The margins of the foliage may vary between serrate and entire depending on the maturity of the specimen and environmental conditions.

Small, inconspicuous flowers give rise to fleshy drupes containing a single hard seed. The bark of mature specimens in this botanical group often develops a distinctly corky or warty texture.

Interesting facts

The specific epithet strychnoides suggests a morphological resemblance to species in the genus Strychnos. This similarity is typically observed in the shape, texture, or veining pattern of the leaves.

The fruits produced by these plants are a vital food source for numerous bird species, which in turn assist in seed dispersal.

Sources

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

Technical Information

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

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