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Description
Celtis tenuifolia, commonly known as the sugarberry tree or hackberry tree, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Cannabaceae family. It is native to North America and is found in the central and eastern regions of the United States. The tree can grow up to 50 feet tall and has a rounded crown. The bark of the tree is grayish-brown and has ridges and furrows. The leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate in shape. They are dark green and have a serrated margin. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring, followed by small, berry-like fruits that turn from green to yellow in the autumn.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Cannabaceae |
| Genus | Celtis |
Appearance
The sugarberry tree has a unique appearance that makes it easy to identify. The tree has a rounded crown and a grayish-brown bark that is ridged and furrowed. The leaves are dark green and have a serrated margin. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring, followed by small, berry-like fruits that turn from green to yellow in the autumn. The tree can grow up to 50 feet tall, making it an excellent shade tree for your garden.
Care Guide
Celtis tenuifolia is an easy-to-care-for tree that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some care tips to help you keep your sugarberry tree healthy and thriving:Water: The tree needs regular watering to establish its root system. Water the tree deeply once a week, especially during hot and dry weather.Fertilization: The tree does not require regular fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring if necessary.Soil: The sugarberry tree can grow in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand. However, it prefers well-draining soil.Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The sugarberry tree is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The sugarberry tree is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common problems to look out for:Pests: The tree can attract aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. You can control these pests by using insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.Diseases: The tree can suffer from leaf spot, powdery mildew, and cankers. You can prevent these diseases by planting the tree in well-draining soil and providing adequate air circulation.
Habitat
Celtis tenuifolia is native to North America and is found in the central and eastern regions of the United States. The tree prefers well-draining soil and can grow in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, savannas, and prairies. It is also a popular ornamental tree in urban areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the sugarberry tree drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, the sugarberry tree is moderately drought-tolerant once established.Q: Are the berries edible?
A: Yes, the berries are edible and can be used to make jams and jellies.Q: Can the sugarberry tree grow in containers?
A: No, the sugarberry tree is not suitable for container planting as it can grow up to 50 feet tall.Q: Does the sugarberry tree attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the tree attracts birds and small mammals that feed on the berries.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Celtis tenuifolia:
- Celtis laevigata (sugar hackberry)
- Celtis occidentalis (common hackberry)
- Celtis reticulata (netleaf hackberry)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Celtis tenuifolia
- University of Florida IFAS Extension: Celtis tenuifolia, Sugarberry
- USDA Plants Database: Celtis tenuifolia
