Chinese hackberry

Celtis sinensis

Basic Information

Family: Ulmaceae

Genus: celtis

Plant ID (slug): celtis-sinensis

Numeric ID: 25149

USDA Hardiness: 8-11

Ratings

Physical Characteristics

Celtis sinensis is a deciduous Tree growing to 10 m (32ft) by 10 m (32ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in flower in April, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Japan, Korea.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy; Secondary;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Leaves Edible Uses: Tea Fruit - raw[1, 2, 105, 177. 179. 183]. The fruit is up to 8mm in diameter[266]. We have no further information, but the fruit is liable to consist of a thin, sweet, though dry and mealy flesh around a large seed[K]. Leaves - cooked[105, 177, 179, 183]. The leaves are used as a tea substitute[177, 183].

Medicinal Uses

Miscellany The root bark is used in the treatment of dyspepsia, poor appetite, shortness of breath and swollen feet[218].