Glendale Public Library
Xeriscape Demonstration Garden Information Sheet

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Celtis reticulata-Netleaf Hackberry

Although it is by no means "new", Netleaf hackberry has not received the attention it deserves. This hardy tree tolerates full sun and reflected heat, soils with low fertility, and is resistant to Texas root rot. Native along streambeds and hillsides at elevations from 1500 to 6000 feet in Arizona, this tree is tolerant of a wide range of conditions. It is a great tree for retention basins, as it can tolerate periodic flooding and drought. Eventually, it can reach a mature size of 30 feet tall and wide.

Netleaf hackberry is deciduous, but has a wonderful arching branch pattern that is revealed when the tree is bare of foliage. Its smooth gray bark becomes fissured with age, creating great character. The dark green leaves have the texture of sandpaper, with conspicuous netlike veins visible on the underside. Birds feed on the small orange-red fruit that remain on the tree through the winter months. Its shallow roots can become a problem when trees are planted too close to building foundations. Netleaf hackberry is extremely long-lived, from 100 to 200 years. USDA Zone 8. 

It can reseed itself with some available moisture.