Desert Hackberry

(Celtis ehrenbergiana)

Desert Hackberry (Celtis ehrenbergiana)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Celtis ehrenbergiana, commonly known as Desert Hackberry, is an evergreen tree or shrub native to arid regions such as desert scrub, thorn forests, and dry woodlands in the Southwestern USA, Florida, Mexico, and South America. In the US, it typically grows as a shrub or small tree up to 10 feet (3 meters) tall, but it can reach greater heights in the tropics. Desert Hackberry is characterized by its thorny branches and a rugged appearance. It produces small, inconspicuous flowers in cymes of 3–5, which are followed by drupes that are orange, yellow, or red. These juicy, egg-shaped fruits are about 7 mm in diameter and are edible for both humans and wildlife. The flowering season extends through spring and summer, and the fruits are particularly attractive to birds.

Desert Hackberry is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in challenging environments, making it suitable for xeriscaping and as a wildlife-friendly plant. It is often used in naturalistic plantings, as a windbreak, or for erosion control. This species is well-adapted to full sun or part shade and requires minimal water once established, preferring soils with fast or medium drainage. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to pests like scales and whiteflies. Its thorny branches may also require careful placement to avoid injury to passersby.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 8-10 feet
  • Width: 8-10 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Winter
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Fire Resistant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Arid regions such as desert scrub, thorn forests, and dry woodlands

Other Names

Common Names: Spiny Hackberry

Scientific Names: Celtis pallida , Celtis ehrenbergiana , Celtis tala , Celtis sellowiana , Celtis spinosa var. pallida , Celtis lancifolia , Celtis pallida subsp. pallida , Celtis pallida var. pallida , Celtis spinosa var. weddelliana , Celtis pallida var. discolor

GBIF Accepted Name: Celtis ehrenbergiana (Klotzsch) Liebm.