Overview
Celtis durandii Engl. is commonly known as Durand's hackberry and is a member of the Ulmaceae family. It is a small tree that is native to Mexico and can reach up to 10 meters in height. The genus name Celtis is derived from the Greek word for "small tree" while the species name durandii honors Elias Durand, an American botanist.
Appearance
Durand's hackberry has a dense, spreading crown with a gray-brown bark that is smooth when young and becomes rough with age. The leaves are alternate, simple, and ovate with toothed margins and a pointed tip. They are dark green and glossy on the upper surface and lighter green on the underside. The small, greenish-white flowers appear in the spring and are followed by small, edible drupes that ripen in the fall.
Uses
The fruits of the Durand's hackberry are edible and have a sweet taste that is similar to dates. They can be eaten raw or used to make jams, jellies, and other sweet dishes. The wood of the tree is hard and durable, making it popular for use in furniture, tool handles, and other woodworking projects.
Native American tribes used various parts of the Durand's hackberry for medicinal purposes such as treating diarrhea, dysentery, and even cancer. The bark was also used for basket making and the tree was considered sacred in some cultures.
Conclusion
In summary, Celtis durandii Engl. or Durand's hackberry is a small, native tree to Mexico with a spreading crown and edible, sweet fruit. Its hard and durable wood has also made it popular for various woodwork purposes while Native American tribes used it for medicinal and other cultural practices.
Light Requirements
Celtis durandii Engl. requires full sun exposure to grow properly. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Lack of adequate sunlight can lead to stunted growth and poor fruit production.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures and does well in tropical and subtropical climates. Ideal temperatures for growth range from 20°C to 27°C. Temperatures below 0°C or above 38°C can be detrimental to the plant's growth and development.
Soil Requirements
Celtis durandii Engl. is adaptable to a wide range of soil types, but it prefers well-draining soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. Soil that is too compacted or retains too much water can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. Adding organic matter such as compost and mulch can improve soil fertility and drainage.
Cultivation Methods
Celtis durandii Engl., also known as Durand's Hackberry, is a plant that can thrive in various soil types, from sandy to clay soils, as long as it is well-draining. It is recommended to propagate the plant via seeds, as cuttings may not root easily. It is best to plant it in a sunny location, but it can also grow in partial shade. Ensure that the plant has enough space to grow, as Celtis durandii Engl. can grow up to 30 ft or more.
Watering Needs
Celtis durandii Engl. requires moderate watering. It is important not to overwater the plant as this can lead to root rot. It is recommended to water the plant deeply once a week, rather than watering it daily. During the hot summer months, the plant may require more frequent watering if the soil becomes too dry.
Fertilization
Celtis durandii Engl. can benefit from fertilization during the growing season. It is recommended to feed the plant with a slow-release granular fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, in early spring. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the winter months or when it is dormant. Over-fertilization can lead to excessive growth, which can weaken the plant.
Pruning
Celtis durandii Engl. can benefit from pruning to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. It is recommended to prune the plant during its dormant season in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches, as well as any suckers that sprout from the base of the plant. Avoid pruning too much, as this can lead to stress on the plant and reduced growth.
Propagation of Celtis durandii Engl.
Celtis durandii Engl., commonly known as Durand's hackberry, can be propagated through several different methods. The following are some of the most commonly used propagation methods:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is a common method of reproducing Celtis durandii. The seeds should be harvested from the plant when they are fully mature, usually in the autumn. The seeds should be cleaned and dried before sowing. They should be sown in pots filled with fertile soil, and kept in a warm and moist environment till germination. Once the seedlings are big enough, they should be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the ground.
Cuttings Propagation
Cutting propagation is a method of cloning Celtis durandii by growing a new plant from a stem cutting. Cuttings should be taken from the plant in the spring or summer, and they must be at least 6 inches long. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a potting mixture made of perlite and peat moss. The pot should be covered with a plastic bag to retain moisture and placed in a warm and bright location. Once the cutting roots and shows signs of new growth, it can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the ground.
Layering Propagation
Layering is another propagation method that can be used to reproduce Celtis durandii. In layering, a branch of the plant is bent towards the ground, and a small cut is made in the bark. The cut area is then covered with soil, and the branch is held down with a small stake. Roots will eventually emerge from the cut area. Once the roots have formed, the branch can be cut from the mother plant and transplanted.
Overall, Celtis durandii can be propagated through various means, but each method requires proper attention to ensure successful propagation. The best method ultimately depends on one’s preferences and experience level in propagation techniques.
Disease and Pest Management for Celtis durandii Engl.
Celtis durandii Engl., also known as the Durand's hackberry, is generally a hardy and disease-resistant plant. However, it can still be affected by some pests and diseases. Here are some of the common pests and diseases that might affect Celtis durandii and how to manage them:
Pests
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects have piercing-sucking mouthparts that they use to feed on the sap of the plant, causing wilted, deformed, or discolored leaves. To manage aphids, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings to keep their population under control.
Spider Mites: These tiny, eight-legged pests suck the chlorophyll from the leaves, causing yellowing, mottled leaves, and webbing on the underside of the leaves. To manage spider mites, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also increase the humidity around the plant or use a strong jet of water to wash them off.
Diseases
Leaf Spots: Leaf spots are caused by various fungi that thrive in humid or wet conditions, causing circular or irregularly shaped spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spots, you can remove the infected leaves and destroy them. You can also use fungicides that contain copper or sulfur to prevent further spread.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a type of fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, you can increase the air circulation around the plant, remove the infected leaves, and use fungicides that contain potassium bicarbonate.
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to rot and turn brown. This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. To manage root rot, you can remove the affected parts of the plant and repot it in fresh, well-draining soil.
Regularly inspecting your plant for any signs of pests or diseases and taking necessary steps to manage them can help ensure that your Celtis durandii remains healthy and disease-free.
