Page 22 - Edible Trees For Tucson

Netleaf Hackberry

Celtis reticulata Ulmaceae

D ESCRIPTI O N
Netleaf hackberry is a native tree generally
occurring from 2,500-6,000 feet in elevation
and 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. The bark
is dark grey and deeply furrowed or warty
on the lower trunks and lighter gray on the
branches. Hackberry leaves are alternate with
smooth margins, 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, green flowers appear in
March and April with new leaves. Fruits are
very small orange-red berries, sweet, edible,
and spherical containing one seed. Fruits persist
through the winter.
E THN O B O T ANI CAL N O TES
• Netleaf hackberry is native to the western
United States and northern Mexico.
P L ANTIN G N O TES
Hackberry trees often grow as an over-story and
are dominant in riparian woodlands. They occur
in moist soil, along streams, canyons, washes,
in the upper desert, desert grasslands and in
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