This deciduous or sometimes semi-deciduous tree grows twenty-five to forty-five feet tall and twenty to thirty feet wide with pendulous, twisting branches and stems that form an irregular shape when young. With proper pruning, it grows upright into a wonderful shade tree. The bark has interesting, corky ridges along its trunk and grayish green, saw-toothed foliage that feels like sandpaper. The top part of the leaf is bright green, and the underneath is a much lighter green. Inconspicuous, greenish white flowers appear in the spring. After flowering, green, pea-size berries develop and turn orange-red in the fall. The berries are a major source of food for desert wildlife and birds. The plant is hardy, surviving well below zero degrees. Netleaf hackberry likes well-draining soil and supplemental water during the summer, but is extremely drought resistant. This desert native likes full sun and reflected heat.
Trees require yearly pruning to maintain their size and appearance. These plants are susceptible to the parasite mistletoe—therefore, watch for infestations. Prune infected areas as needed. It is a great choice for open areas and natural wildlife habitats in desert landscapes as a shade tree or for restoration. The wood from the tree has been used to make furniture and other products. It grows natively in Northern Mexico on dry, rocky hillsides, in canyons, and along dry stream beds at elevations of 2,500 to 6,000 feet.