White Stinkwood
celtis africana
Also known as: ["African Hackberry","White Nettle Tree"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to southern Africa, known for its hardy nature and shade-providing canopy.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Cannabaceae |
| Genus: | Celtis |
| Botanical Name: | Celtis africana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, adaptable to various landscapes
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter. Tolerates poor soils but thrives with good structure.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and size control.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching. Provide shade during extreme heat. Indoors, place near a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct midday sun indoors.
Watering
every 7–14 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 9–11; tolerates temperatures between 50°F–85°F (10°C–29°C). Prefers mild temperatures but can withstand mild frosts.
Monitor temperature extremes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Softwood cuttings taken in summer root most reliably.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70°F–75°F), humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to remove entire branches back to the trunk or main branch; heading cuts to shorten branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape the tree, remove dead or crossing branches, and encourage a strong structure.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Young plants may need repotting annually.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; inspect roots; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix sand or perlite for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme heat; stunted growth or browning leaf edges in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 28°F (-2°C) can damage or kill the plant. Growth slows significantly in cold conditions.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or mulch in winter. Plant in a sheltered location or move containers indoors during freezes.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor, especially with inadequate water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering, and use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; dilute liquid feeds; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCeltis africana is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known toxins that would cause harm to felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCeltis africana is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCeltis africana, commonly known as the White Stinkwood, is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant has no known toxic parts or significant physiological effects when ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Celtis africana suitable for urban planting?
A: Yes, it is highly adaptable to urban environments and tolerates pollution well.
Q: Does Celtis africana produce edible fruit?
A: The small drupes are edible but not commonly consumed by humans.
Q: How fast does Celtis africana grow?
A: It is a moderately fast-growing tree, typically reaching 1–1.5 meters per year in ideal conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cannabaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–14 days during activ |
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