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Description
Celtis Ehrenbergiana, also known as the Sonoran Hackberry, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Cannabaceae family. It is native to the Sonoran Desert in northern Mexico and the southwestern United States. The tree can grow up to 60 feet tall and has a trunk that can reach up to 3 feet in diameter. The bark is gray and rough, and the leaves are simple, alternate, and serrated. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, and the fruit is a small, dark purple drupe.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Cannabaceae |
| Genus | Celtis |
Appearance
Celtis Ehrenbergiana has a tall, straight trunk with a broad, rounded crown. The leaves are simple, alternate, and serrated, with a length of 1-4 inches and a width of 0.5-2 inches. The upper surface of the leaf is dark green, while the lower surface is paler. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring, followed by small, dark purple drupes that are a favorite food source for birds and other wildlife.
Care Guide
Celtis Ehrenbergiana is a hardy tree that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can also grow in partial shade. The tree should be watered regularly during the first few years of growth, but once established, it can tolerate drought conditions. Fertilization is not necessary, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring if desired. Celtis Ehrenbergiana is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Celtis Ehrenbergiana is generally a healthy tree that is not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by the cottonwood borer, which can cause damage to the trunk and branches. The tree can also be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly drained soil. Regular inspection and care can prevent these issues from occurring.
Habitat
Celtis Ehrenbergiana is native to the Sonoran Desert in northern Mexico and the southwestern United States, including Arizona, California, New Mexico, and Texas. The tree is commonly found in canyons, washes, and other areas with well-drained soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Celtis Ehrenbergiana a good shade tree?
A: Yes, Celtis Ehrenbergiana is a good shade tree that can provide a broad, rounded crown and filtered shade.
Q: Can Celtis Ehrenbergiana tolerate drought conditions?
A: Yes, Celtis Ehrenbergiana is a hardy tree that can tolerate drought conditions once established.
Q: What is the best growing condition for Celtis Ehrenbergiana?
A: Celtis Ehrenbergiana prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can also grow in partial shade.
Q: What is the height of Celtis Ehrenbergiana?
A: Celtis Ehrenbergiana can grow up to 60 feet tall.
Related Plants
- Celtis africana
- Celtis australis
- Celtis bungeana
- Celtis caucasica
- Celtis lindheimeri
References
- “Celtis Ehrenbergiana.” Desert Museum. https://www.desertmuseum.org/kids/oz/long-fact-sheets/Celtis%20ehrenbergiana.php
- “Celtis Ehrenbergiana.” Arizona State University. https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapaiplants/SpeciesDetailTrees.php?genus=Celtis&species=ehrenbergiana
- “Celtis Ehrenbergiana.” The Firefly Forest. https://fireflyforest.net/firefly/2006/06/25/sonoran-hackberry-celtis-ehrenbergiana/
