Scientific Name
Celtis reticulata
Netleaf hackberry is closely related to common hackberry but is a tougher, more drought-resistant species. Its native range is broad and somewhat scattered, with large populations in Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas and northern Mexico, along with smaller, disjunct populations across parts of the western U.S., even extending into Oregon and Washington. In Colorado, it occurs in the far southeast and along the Front Range, making it one of our few native trees. The Regis specimen was grown from seed collected in a Front Range canyon.
This is a small tree, usually maturing at under 25 feet. In harsher environments, it may remain sparsely foliaged or take on a more shrubby form. Once established, it can survive on as little as 7 inches of annual precipitation, about half of Denver’s average, and it grows well on rocky, infertile soils.
The leaves resemble those of common hackberry in size and shape but are thicker and more leathery. Their veins, often a lighter yellowish color, are impressed on the upper surface and raised beneath. The upper surface is also typically rough, with a sandpapery texture. The fruits are small, fleshy drupes similar to those of common hackberry, and are sweet and edible.