Overview
Celtis sinensis var. japonica is a spreading branched trees in the genus Celtis, part of the Cannabaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Celtis sinensis var. japonica grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include wildlife gardens and low maintenance.
About
Celtis sinensis var. japonica is a spreading-branched deciduous tree in the hemp family (Cannabaceae). It forms a well-branched canopy rather than a single, narrow stem. Best sited in full sun on free-draining soils such as loam, sand or chalk, it favours south- or west-facing, sheltered positions. Flowers appear in April to May and it suits wildlife gardens and areas needing minimal upkeep.
About the genus
Celtis is a genus of about 60–70 species of deciduous trees, commonly known as hackberries or nettle trees, in the hemp family Cannabaceae. It has a cosmopolitan distribution.
Wikipedia contributors, "Celtis", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Celtis
In the garden
Celtis sinensis var. japonica sits in the genus Celtis within the Cannabaceae and displays a spreading-branched habit with deciduous foliage. As a tree, it is valued for its structural presence rather than for showy features; gardeners will note its habit when planning size and spacing. Plant this species in an open, south- or west-facing spot where it receives full sun. It tolerates a wide pH range — acid to alkaline — and grows on loam, sand or chalk provided soil is well drained. Give it a sheltered aspect rather than an exposed ridge; that exposure guidance helps avoid wind desiccation on young stems. Its hardiness rating H6 corresponds to 'very hardy' in UK terms, so it withstands most winter conditions in suitable sites. Use it where a low-intervention tree is required: wildlife gardens or larger border schemes where regular pruning is not desirable. Plan planting so its seasonal interest is noticed; it reliably flowers in April to May, which can be useful when arranging mixed-species sequences through spring.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Celtis
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand, Chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Celtis sinensis var. japonica size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Trees
- Habit
- Spreading branched
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Wildlife gardens, Low Maintenance
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Celtis sinensis var. japonica
- Propagation
- Seed in autumn
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Celtis sinensis var. japonica?
Celtis sinensis var. japonica prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Celtis sinensis var. japonica need?
Celtis sinensis var. japonica is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including loam, sand and chalk. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Celtis sinensis var. japonica hardy in the UK?
Celtis sinensis var. japonica has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Celtis sinensis var. japonica?
Seed in autumn.
