Chinese hackberry (Celtis sinensis)

Chinese hackberry

Also known as: Japanese hackberry

This deciduous tree, the chinese hackberry or Celtis sinensis, is a deciduous tree and a member of the hemp family. It can grow to about 18 m tall. It can be considered invasive.

Scientific classification

Species

Chinese hackberry (Celtis sinensis)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring

Bloom Time

Early fall, Mid fall

Harvest Time

20 m

Plant Height

Yellow, Green, Brown

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Chinese hackberry

Distribution of Chinese hackberry

Distribution Map

Chinese hackberry is a plant that naturally occurs in regions of East Asia and has been introduced and cultivated in other parts of Asia. Its presence in its native habitat spans a broad area that includes temperate and subtropical zones, thriving in a variety of ecological conditions. While traditionally rooted in its native range, chinese hackberry has spread beyond its original borders, adapting to new territories within the Asian continent.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Lowland, hills, roadsides, slopes

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

This fast-growing, warm climate tree is appreciated in landscaping for the copper hue of its new leaves, as well as its golden-yellow color in the fall. Highly resilient and tolerant of poor soil and most weather events, it is a popular choice for urban gardens and parks. A fragrant and pollen-rich tree, chinese hackberry is also a useful addition to wildlife gardens. The most notable cultivar, "Green Cascade," can be an interesting specimen tree, but must be grown over a support structure.

Symbolism

Peace of Buk-gu and the strong will of its citizens

Interesting Facts

The plants of the genus Celtis, including Celtis sinensis, are so-called living fossils. Some species have been present on Earth since the Miocene of Europe (from 23 million to 5.3 million years ago) and Paleocene of North America and eastern Asia (from about 66 to 56 million years ago).

Name Story

Chinese hackberry||Japanese hackberry: Many species of the Celtis genus are called hackberry or nettle trees. These trees are native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere and they produce cherry-like fruit. Celtis sinensis is native to China and East Asia, hence the common name chinese hackberry.

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Quickly Identify Chinese hackberry

Deciduous tree with a round, spreading canopy, reaching heights of 40 to 50 feet (12 to 15 meters).

Small, inconspicuous monoecious flowers with greenish hue, less than 0.12 inches (3 mm) in size.

Globose drupe fruit, 1/3 inch (8.5 mm) diameter, transitioning from green to reddish-brown.

Dark green leaves, 2 to 5 inches (5 to 12 cm) long, with serrated margins and prominent veins.

Smooth gray to gray-brown bark, without fissures or peeling, enveloping a robust trunk.

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Care Guide for Chinese hackberry

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Chinese hackberry prefers a moderate humidity level and is drought-tolerant once established, requiring watering every two weeks. Indoors, it thrives in higher humidity, and consistent moisture during the growing season is essential, while avoiding waterlogging for optimal vigor.

Fertilize: Fertilize chinese hackberry with balanced nutrition formulas in spring and fall. Apply high nitrogen monthly during active growth, using up to 1/4 pound per inch of trunk diameter. Adjust feeding according to seasons, water deeply after fertilization to prevent root burn and enhance nutrient uptake.

Pruning: Chinese hackberry is a resilient deciduous tree with attractive foliage. Prune in early spring, removing dead or diseased branches, and thinning crowded areas. Avoid heavy pruning in late summer or fall to prevent winter stress. Regular pruning improves airflow, light penetration, and reduces pests.

Propagation: Chinese hackberry is a deciduous tree known for its resilience. Propagation is ideally done through sowing; cold stratification enhances germination. Use well-draining soil and keep seeds moist. Transplant seedlings carefully to avoid root disturbance for successful growth.

Repotting: Repot chinese hackberry every 2-3 years in spring to support its expanding roots. Use a larger pot and provide indirect sunlight after repotting. Water sparingly until new growth appears, as this tree-like plant thrives in spacious containers as it matures.

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