Chinese Hackberry
celtis sinensis
Also known as: ["Chinese Nettle Tree","Japanese Hackberry"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to East Asia, known for its smooth, gray bark and small, berry-like fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Cannabaceae |
| Genus: | Celtis |
| Botanical Name: | Celtis sinensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in temperate climates, or large indoor container with bright light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins; light pruning can be done as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed, but avoid heavy pruning on young plants.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from indoors to outdoors; protect from intense midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer hours; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid compacted soil; ensure good aeration; monitor for signs of poor drainage.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 60–85°F (15–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate warmth.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust frequency based on growth rate.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture in the medium.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use water propagation for cuttings.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth typically appears after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap (for humidity).
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity around cuttings; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a bud or branch junction; remove crossing or inward-growing branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead or diseased branches, and encourage bushier growth; focus on maintaining a balanced structure.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for thicker branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) with good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim root bound areas; replace with fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for young plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water the root zone directly, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to reduce evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure organic matter is well-integrated.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or wilting in extreme cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold; vulnerable to frost damage in young or weak plants.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth in winter; move to a sheltered location; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow due to excessive heat and water loss.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCeltis sinensis is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCeltis sinensis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCeltis sinensis, commonly known as Chinese Hackberry, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts reported from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Celtis sinensis suitable for urban environments?
A: Yes, it is highly adaptable and tolerant of urban pollution and compacted soils.
Q: Does Celtis sinensis produce edible fruits?
A: The small, berry-like fruits are edible but often bitter and not commonly consumed.
Q: How tall does Celtis sinensis grow?
A: It can reach heights of 20–25 meters (65–82 feet) in ideal conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cannabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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