Utah State University

• Utah Native Plant Index
• Utah State University
  • A-Z Index
  • Calendars
  • My USU
  • Contact
  • People/Web Search
• Plants, Soils and Biometerology
• Horticulture at USU
• Utah Botanical Center
• Native Plant Nurseries
• Utah's Choice

Celtis reticulata
Western Hackberry

Family Ulmaceae (Elm Family)

Description

Usually don't get much larger than 5 meters. The bark bears corky ridges along its length, with the branchlets sporting a fine pubescence. The larger leaves can obtain sizes 8 cm long and 4 cm wide. The leaf shape is ovate to lanceolate, with a serrated margin.

Range

Occurs throughout the intermountain west, north into Washington and south to Mexico. Elevation: 4,000-6,000 feet.

Culture

Prefers dry, rocky soils. Tolerates compaction, pH and salinity. Zones 4 - 9.

Value

Not many landscape assets, certainly not a specimen plant with no fall color or flowers, but in a carefully constructed low-water landscape it can provide a vertical balance to the more common lower-growing plants.

Propagation

Can be propagated from seed, but easiest is buying from a nursery. To start indoors cold treat for 60 to 90 days. Seed germinates best if after-ripened at least one year. Sow seed into container and cover to depth. May be transplanted any time after the true leaves are formed. To start outdoors place seed in the desired location in the spring or summer. Water throughout the warm season and during any prolonged dry period during the winter. Look for plants in one to two years.