Hackberry
Classification:
Family: Cannabaceae, hemp family
Genus, species: Celtis occidentalis
Leaves:
Leaves are lance-shaped. Base of leaf is asymmetrical, heart-shaped. Tip of leaf has a narrow curve. Leaves have rough texture with doubly-serrated edges. Underside of leaf is often covered with round galls. The gall is an abnormal growth resulting from infection by psyllid insects. Adult psyllids lay eggs on leaves. Immature insects hatch from eggs, feed on leaf tissue, and become surrounded by the protective gall.
Bark:
Bark is gray or light brown with distinctive corky ridges and small wart-like bumps.
Flowers:
Flowers are small, green.
Fruit:
Fruits are reddish or purplish berries, each with one seed.
More Information:
The genus name, Celtis, is from an ancient Greek name for a tree with sweet fruit. The species name, occidentalis, is from the Latin for "western" or "occidental."
Photos:Hackberry leaf
Hackberry bark
