Chinese Hackberry Celtis sinensis

Chinese Hackberry is a rapidly growing, flowering, deciduous tree in the hemp family (Cannabaceae) reaching 40 to 50 feet high and wide at maturity with a round, spreading crown. In its native Asia, it can be found on the lowlands and hills of Japan and the roadsides and slopes of China. It can be invasive in some environments and has been declared a noxious weed in parts of South Africa and Australia.The species' name is Greek for Chinese.

These trees thrive in hot summers and full sun. Shading can cause underdeveloped wood leading to winter dieback. Under optimum conditions, Chinese Hackberry is very long-lived. The tree suckers, but it primarily naturalizes by seed dispersal. Plant in full sun in moist amended well-drained soil.  It is a tough plant that tolerates drought, wind, urban conditions, dry, wet, and poor soils. Avoid planting along driveways, sidewalks and roads as the roots can cause damage. Avoid damaging the wood with string trimmers and other equipment as wood rot can occur. Prune while young to promote a strong growth pattern by removing multiple trunks and weak branch crotches.

Insignificant flowers are followed by orange to red drupes enjoyed by wildlife. The fall leaf color is yellow-brown.

This tree can be used as a shade tree but has the potential to naturalize. Consider using native hackberries instead.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:  The dried fruits falling to the ground can be a litter problem. Caution should be used when planting this tree when overhead power lines are in the area.  Witches’ broom (dwarfed, dense, contorted twig clusters at the branch ends) is common in some areas.