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Celtis australis

European hackberry

A deciduous, spreading tree up to around 20m tall with a rounded crown. Dark green, oval, sharply-toothed leaves are up to 15cm long and turn pale yellow before falling in autumn. Inconspicuous yellowish-green spring flowers are followed by small, purple-black fruits up to 1cm wide hanging in small clusters

Other common names
European nettle tree
honeyberry of Greece
see morelote tree
Mediterranean hackberry
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Size
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
Wider than 8 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Chalk
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Yellow Green
Summer Green
Autumn Yellow Purple Black
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Cannabaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Spreading branched
Name status

Correct

Plant range
Europe, N. Africa, Asia Minor

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun; does best in hot summers in the UK

Propagation

Propagate by seed in autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Low Maintenance
Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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