Netleaf Hackberry Celtis reticulata Torr. Ulmaceae

Species description Netleaf hackberry is a native tree that may grow 35 feet tall with a crown of equal measurement in diameter. The trees generally occur from 2,500- 6,000 feet in elevation, and may be hardy to -20ºF. Hackberry trunks are well developed, with knobby, irregular growth forms on the trunks and branches, creating a strange, erratic shape to the trees, though this quality tends to diminish farther south in Mexico. The bark is dark grey and deeply furrowed on the lower trunks and lighter gray on the branches. Hackberry leaves are alternate with smooth margins, though they may be occasionally toothed near the leaf base. The leaves are slightly heart-shaped, rough in texture and dark green. Where the leaf connects to the stem, one side is often larger. Inconspicuous, small, greenish flowers appear in March and April as new leaves emerge. The fruit are orange red, sweet, edible, and spherical (drupes), about 1/4 to 3/8 inch in diameter, and contain one seed. The fruits persist through the winter. Hackberry trees may live for 100-200 years.

Natural and cultural history Netleaf hackberry is native to the western United States and northern Mexico. Hackberry trees often grow as an over-story dominant in riparian woodlands. They usually occur in moist soil, along streams, canyons, and washes, on plains grassland, and in the upper desert, desert grasslands, and woodland zones.

Planting considerations and propagation techniques The species prefers deep, well-drained, loamy soils. Netleaf hackberry grows best in full sun, but also does well in partial shade. The trees are wind pollinated. Seed propagation of netleaf hackberry requires cold treatment; the seeds can be stratified at 41ºF for 120 days in moist sand. The trees can also be reproduced through vegetative cuttings.

Water needs Netleaf hackberry trees are fairly drought tolerant, especially upon maturity.

Care The trees have irregular growth patterns and the abrupt branches may feel sharp and difficult to work around. The trees generally do not need pruning except to shape to fit a desired space.

Harvesting and processing The faintly sweet, thin-fleshed berries may be eaten raw, made into preserves, or used as a seasoning for meat. The berries do not have much flesh, though and are more important as a food resource for birds and wildlife.

References and resources Bonner, F. T. 1974. Celtis L. In Seeds of Woody Plants in the United States, edited by C. S. Schopmeyer. Agricultural Handbook #450. Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington D.C. Facciola, S. 1998. Cornucopia II: A Source Book of Edible Plants. Kampong Publications, Vista, CA. Felger, R.S., M.B. Johnson, and M.F. Wilson. 2001. The Trees of Sonora, Mexico. Oxford University Press, Oxford, UK. Tirmenstein, D. A. 1990. Celtis reticulata. In: Fire Effects Information System, [Online]. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, Fire Sciences Laboratory (Producer). http://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/. Accessed June 17, 2015. Tree New Mexico. n.d. Netleaf Hackberry. http://www.treenm.com/nm-tree-species/netleaf-hackberry/.

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