Overview: Celtis tetrandra
Celtis tetrandra, commonly known as the Asian hackberry or Taiwan hackberry, is a species of small to medium-sized deciduous tree that belongs to the Cannabaceae family. It is native to East Asia, particularly in Taiwan, China, and Japan and has since been introduced to other parts of the world. The plant is often grown as an ornamental tree in urban areas and can grow up to 15 meters tall.
Appearance
The tree has a rounded crown that's slightly flattened at the top, and its bark is light brown-gray and covered in small warty bumps. It has alternate leaves that are about 5-10 cm long, with an elliptic or ovate shape and a serrated margin. The leaves are a glossy dark green on the upper surface and pale green on the underside. Celtis tetrandra produces small, round, and green fruits that turn yellow or orange when ripe.
Common Names
Celtis tetrandra has several common names, including the Asian hackberry, Japanese hackberry, Taiwan hackberry, or Japanese nettle tree. In China, the tree is called Chuan dong or Chuan xin mu. Locals in Taiwan refer to it as Luo2xuan1 (??).
Uses
The wood of Celtis tetrandra is used to make furniture, flooring, and other interior fittings. The bark and leaves contain medicinal properties that have been used to treat fever, hypertension, and liver problems. The tree is also grown as an ornamental plant in parks and gardens, as it has a high tolerance for urban pollution and can adapt to different soil types. The fruits of Celtis tetrandra are edible, and they have a pleasant sweet taste. They are often used to make jam, wine, and other desserts in Taiwan and other parts of East Asia.
In summary, Celtis tetrandra is an attractive deciduous tree that produces small, tasty fruits and has several medicinal and commercial uses. It is commonly grown in urban landscapes and is known for its adaptability to different soil types and resistance to pollution.Light Requirements
Celtis tetrandra thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can grow even in low light conditions but for optimal growth, it needs at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
Celtis tetrandra is a tough plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can grow in USDA hardiness zones 7-10 and withstand both dry and humid climates. However, the plant does not tolerate frost and needs to be protected during the winter months in colder areas.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It can grow in most soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils. Celtis tetrandra can thrive in dry soils, but for optimal growth, it needs consistent moisture conditions. Adding organic matter such as compost to the soil can improve the structure and fertility of the soil, which can promote better plant growth.
Cultivation Methods
Celtis tetrandra is best grown in well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. It prefers moist but not waterlogged soil. It can tolerate drought but does not do well in excessively wet conditions. It is recommended to plant Celtis tetrandra in the spring or fall.
Watering Needs
Celtis tetrandra requires regular watering, especially during the establishment period. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. It is recommended to water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering.
Fertilization
Celtis tetrandra does not require fertilizer if planted in rich soil. However, if grown in poor soil, it may benefit from a slow-release fertilizer in late winter or early spring. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20.
Pruning
Celtis tetrandra may require minor pruning to maintain shape or remove dead or damaged branches. It is best to prune during the dormant season, either in late fall or winter, as it is less stressful for the plant. Avoid pruning during the growing season as it may encourage new growth that could be damaged by frost in the winter.
Propagation of Celtis tetrandra
Celtis tetrandra, commonly known as Four-seeded hackberry, is a deciduous flowering plant that belongs to the Cannabaceae family. This plant is commonly found in the southwestern part of the United States. The propagation methods for Celtis tetrandra include:
Seed propagation
The seeds of Celtis tetrandra are small and hard. They can be collected from mature fruits and stored in a cool, dry place until planting time. Before planting, the seeds should be scarified to allow water to penetrate the hard seed coat. This can be done by nicking the seed coat with a sharp knife or rubbing the seeds with sandpaper. The scarified seeds should be soaked in water overnight before planting.
Once the seeds are scarified and soaked, they can be planted in trays or pots filled with well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Seedling emergence usually takes around 2-3 weeks.
Cuttings propagation
Cuttings can also be taken from Celtis tetrandra for propagation. Softwood cuttings can be taken from spring to summer, while hardwood cuttings are best taken in fall or winter. The cuttings should be around 6 inches long and should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed before planting.
The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in containers filled with a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist, and the cuttings should be placed in a warm, humid environment. Rooting usually takes around 4-6 weeks.
Grafting propagation
Grafting can also be used to propagate Celtis tetrandra. This method involves joining the stem of a desired cultivar to a rootstock of a related species. The rootstock is chosen for its disease resistance and vigor, while the scion is chosen for its desirable traits like flower color or fruit size.
Grafting should be done during the dormant season when plants are not actively growing. The scion should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants and should be around the same diameter as the rootstock. The graft union should be wrapped with grafting tape or wax to prevent moisture loss.
Propagation of Celtis tetrandra can be a rewarding experience and can produce new plants that are similar to the parent plant. Care should be taken to ensure that the propagation process is done correctly to maximize success rates.
Disease and Pest Management for Celtis tetrandra
Celtis tetrandra is a stout and drought-resistant plant that belongs to the Ulmaceae family. Despite being a resilient plant, it can occasionally succumb to a variety of plant diseases and pests. Here are some common disease and pest management practices:
Diseases
1. Powdery mildew - This fungal disease appears like a white, powdery substance on the plant's leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage this disease, prune any infected plant parts, improve air circulation and reduce humidity in the plant's surroundings. Use fungicides to control the disease outbreak.
2. Leaf Spot - It is one of the most common diseases that affect Celtis tetrandra. It appears as small, circular, reddish-brown spots on the leaves, which gradually enlarge and merge to form large irregular dead areas. To prevent this disease from occurring, practice good sanitation habits, including pruning any fallen leaves and infected plant parts, and avoid overhead watering, which can promote the spread of the disease.
Pests
1. Scale insects - Scale insects can affect Celtis tetrandra plants, causing damage by sucking the sap from the leaves or trunk. Control this pest by washing the plant's foliage to remove the insects or use insecticide sprays regularly.
2. Spider mites - These pests thrive in dry conditions, causing discoloration of the plant's foliage. To manage the pest, ensure the plant gets enough moisture, mist the plant's leaves regularly and prune infected leaves. Use insecticidal soap, horticultural oil, or insecticidal spray to control spider mites.
Following these disease and pest management techniques will help prevent and manage any harmful pathogens and insects that might attack your Celtis tetrandra plants, ensuring that they remain healthy and thriving.
