Introduction
Celtis orientalis L. is a deciduous tree that belongs to the family Ulmaceae. It is commonly known as the Oriental hackberry, including in its native lands in Asia and Europe, where it is highly valued for its multiple beneficial properties and uses.
Origin
Celtis orientalis L. is native to a wide area in Asia and Europe, including countries such as China, India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Turkey, and Greece, among others. It can grow in a variety of climatic conditions, from subtropical to temperate, and it often thrives in disturbed environments such as fields, roadsides, and gardens.
Common Names
The common names of Celtis orientalis L. vary depending on the local language and region. Besides the Oriental hackberry, it is also known as Himalayan hackberry, Chinese hackberry, Mediterranean hackberry, False elm, and Chinese nettle tree.
Uses
Celtis orientalis L. has multiple uses and values for human societies and ecosystems, including:
- Food: The tree produces small, edible fruits that have a sweet taste and are often used to make jellies, jams, and wine. In some cultures, the fruits are also consumed fresh or dried.
- Medicine: Various parts of the tree have medicinal properties and have been used in traditional healing practices for many centuries. For example, the bark is believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, while the leaves are used to treat diabetes, hypertension, and respiratory diseases.
- Ecological services: Celtis orientalis L. is an important component of many natural and human-made ecosystems. It provides shade, habitat, and food for numerous animal species, including birds, insects, and mammals. It also helps to stabilize soils, reduce erosion, and improve water quality.
- Wood: The wood of the tree is hard, durable, and resistant to decay. It is used in various applications, such as furniture, flooring, and tool handles.
General Appearance
Celtis orientalis L. is a medium-sized tree that can reach up to 15-20 meters in height and 40-60 cm in diameter. It has a straight trunk with a greyish-brown bark that becomes fissured with age. The leaves are alternate, simple, and serrated, and they have an elliptical shape with a pointed apex. They are green in color and turn yellow in autumn. The flowers are small, inconspicuous, and greenish-white, and they appear in early spring before the leaves. The fruits are round, fleshy, and purple-black when mature, and they contain a hard seed in the center.
Light Requirements
Celtis orientalis L. prefers full to partial sunlight exposure for optimal growth. Without enough exposure to sunlight, this plant can become leggy and weak.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows well in warm temperatures. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from 18 to 30 degrees Celsius, however, prefer to grow between 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. During the winter, it can withstand cold temperatures down to -7 degrees Celsius but temperatures below that can damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant can grow in various soil types which can range from sandy to loamy, to clayey soils, however, it prefers well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. For optimal growth waterlogging of the soil should be avoided, as the plant may become prone to root rot. Soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.5 for best growth.
Cultivation Methods
Celtis orientalis L., also known as hackberry or nettle tree, is a hardy plant that can adapt to a wide range of growing conditions. It prefers a well-draining soil and a location with full sun to partial shade. When planting, dig a hole twice the size of the root ball and water thoroughly. Mulching around the base of the tree will help retain moisture and provide organic matter to the soil.Watering Needs
Celtis orientalis L. has moderate water needs and can tolerate drought conditions. It is important to water deeply once a week during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. In arid regions or during periods of intense heat, the plant may require more frequent watering.Fertilization
Celtis orientalis L. generally does not require extra fertilization if it is planted in nutrient-rich soil. However, if the soil is poor, a balanced all-purpose fertilizer can be applied once in the spring. Be sure to follow the package instructions carefully to avoid over-fertilization, which can damage the plant.Pruning
Celtis orientalis L. does not require extensive pruning, but minor shaping can be done in early spring or late winter if necessary. Remove any dead or damaged branches and suckers that grow from the base of the tree. To promote a strong and healthy structure, prune back any crossing or rubbing branches. Avoid pruning during the growing season, as this can stress the plant and stunt its growth.Propagation of Celtis orientalis L.
Propagation is the process of increasing the number of plants through various methods. Celtis orientalis L. can be propagated through various asexual and sexual methods.
Asexual Propagation
The asexual propagation involves techniques that do not use seed as a method of propagation. The asexual methods of propagation in Celtis orientalis L. include:
- Hardwood Cuttings: Cuttings of mature plant material taken in early autumn can be rooted under mist in a greenhouse.
- Semi-hardwood Cuttings: Cuttings taken in late summer can be rooted in sand in a greenhouse.
- Air layering: A section of stem is girdled and then covered with a rooting hormone and moist media. Once roots form, the stem can be cut off and planted in a container.
- Softwood Cuttings: Shoot cuttings taken in spring can be rooted in sand in a greenhouse.
Sexual Propagation
Sexual propagation involves the use of seeds. The propagation by seeds in Celtis orientalis L. can be done by the following methods:
- Seed Collection: The seed capsules are harvested in the fall when they turn brown and dry. Dry capsules are opened, and the seeds are removed.
- Stratification: Seeds for propagation must be stratified at 4°C for three months before sowing.
- Sowing: Seed can be sown outdoors in the fall or early spring.
The asexual propagation methods of hardwood and semi-hardwood cuttings tend to be most successful and are preferred for their genetic stability. These methods ensure that the new plants are genetically identical to the parent plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Celtis Orientalis L.
Celtis orientalis L., commonly known as the Oriental hackberry or Asian hackberry, is a deciduous tree that is native to Asia. The plant is highly valued for its timber, but it is also a popular ornamental plant that can be grown in gardens and landscapes. However, like any plant, it is prone to diseases and pests that can affect its health and growth. It is important to manage these diseases and pests to ensure the trees remain healthy and vibrant. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect Celtis orientalis L. and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Leaf Spots: Leaf spotting is a common disease that affects Celtis orientalis L. The symptoms include small spots on the leaves, which can gradually spread and cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage this disease, prune any affected leaves and spray fungicide on the plant after the pruning. Keep the plant well-watered and remove any fallen leaves or debris around the base of the plant.
Anthracnose: Another fungal disease that can affect Celtis orientalis L. is anthracnose. The symptoms include small, sunken spots on the leaves that may enlarge and cause leaves to fall off early. To manage this disease, prune any affected stems and spray fungicide on the plant. Keep the plant well-watered and avoid overhead watering.
Common Pests
Bark Beetles: Celtis orientalis L. is highly susceptible to bark beetles, which can cause serious damage to the tree. The beetles bore into the bark and build tunnels, cutting off the flow of nutrients and causing wilting and tree death. To manage this pest, remove any infected trees and burn them. Apply insecticides to the surrounding area to prevent further infestation.
Scale Insects: The scale insect is a common pest that can affect Celtis orientalis L. The symptoms include a black, sticky substance on the branches and leaves. The insects feed on the plant sap, causing the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage this pest, prune any affected branches and apply insecticide. Use horticultural oil or soap to suffocate the insects and prevent them from laying eggs.
By managing these common diseases and pests, you can keep your Celtis orientalis L. trees healthy and enjoy their beauty for years to come.
