TOTW Celtis reticulata

Commonly known as the netleaf hackberry, this tough looking tree is actually in the Cannabaceae, or hemp family. Its small, leathery leaves and twisted branches often give this tree a wild appearance. This is appropriate, since it is pretty resilient under harsh conditions other trees might not tolerate. It is native to the western United States, but has a range from California all the way to Louisiana. While considered invasive in some areas, it has a history of usefulness. Native Americans would use the berries as food and the Papago tribe even used the bark to make sandals. While this tree is not regarded as being the most beautiful, it definitely makes up for it in character.