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Description
Celtis Australis, commonly known as the European hackberry, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Cannabaceae family. It is native to Southern Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. The tree can grow up to 25 meters in height, with a trunk diameter of 1 meter. It has a round crown with a spreading canopy and a greyish-brown bark that is fissured and corky. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in the spring, which are followed by small, edible fruits that ripen to a dark purple color in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Cannabaceae |
| Genus | Celtis |
Appearance
The Celtis Australis has a distinct appearance that can be easily recognized. The tree has a round crown with a spreading canopy that provides ample shade. The leaves are deciduous, simple, and alternate. They are ovate in shape and have a serrated margin. The leaves are dark green in color and turn yellow in the fall. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in the spring, which are followed by small, edible fruits that ripen to a dark purple color in the fall. The bark of the tree is greyish-brown in color and is fissured and corky.
Care Guide
Celtis Australis is an easy-to-grow tree that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for your Celtis Australis:- Water: The tree requires regular watering, especially during the summer months. Be sure to water deeply and frequently to keep the soil moist.- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. – Soil: The tree prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. – Sunlight: The Celtis Australis prefers full sun to partial shade. – Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Celtis Australis is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it may be susceptible to aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. The tree may also be susceptible to leaf spot and canker. These diseases can be controlled by pruning affected branches and applying a fungicide.
Habitat
The Celtis Australis is native to Southern Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. It prefers warm, sunny climates and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, riverbanks, and rocky hillsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the fruit of the Celtis Australis edible?
A: Yes, the fruit of the Celtis Australis is edible and has a sweet taste.
Q: How fast does the Celtis Australis grow?
A: The Celtis Australis is a relatively slow-growing tree, growing at a rate of around 1 to 2 feet per year.
Q: Does the Celtis Australis require pruning?
A: The Celtis Australis may require pruning to maintain its shape and remove any damaged or diseased branches.
Q: Can the Celtis Australis be grown in a container?
A: While it is not recommended, the Celtis Australis can be grown in a container if provided with adequate space and watering.
Related Plants
– Celtis occidentalis- Celtis laevigata- Celtis tenuifolia- Celtis sinensis
References
– “Celtis Australis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c266- “Celtis Australis.” Plants of the World Online. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:851287-1- “Celtis Australis.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/13412/Celtis-australis/Details
