Celtis australis Hackberry, Southern nettle tree

Ulmaceae

Celtis australis Hackberry, Southern nettle tree

A seldom used tree with a round to umbel-shaped crown. Mature specimen may attain a height of over 20 m, the tree grows with gracefully hanging branches. The bark is grey and smooth, when maturing peeling in small plates. The ovate-lanceolate to ovoid leaf is sharply toothed and with a very long twisted point. The topside is dark green, the underside is grey green. The leaf is rough to the touch on both sides. After an inconspicuous inflorescence the berry-like stone fruits appear. They are dark red to almost black and taste sweet. They hang down from circa 2 cm long, pilose stalks. The wood is useful and the young, flexible twigs were once used for whips, hence its name “whip tree”. A graceful tree that is little susceptible to air pollution. Young twigs can be damaged by frosts.
Our trees can only be planted when they don't have any leaves. Due to the this we will start delivering again from November 2025.
Availability
Specifications
Download PDF
Height
10 - 15 (20) m
Width
10-12m
Crown
round to umbel-shaped, half-open crown
Bark and branches
grey, smooth, later peeling
Leaf
ovate-lanceolate to ovoid, dark green, 9 - 15 cm
Autumn colour
yellow
Flowers
inconspicuous, green, April/May
Fruits
round stone fruit, black red, Ø circa 1 cm
Spines/thorns
None
Toxicity
usually not toxic to people, (large) pets and livestock
Soil type
well-drained soil, tolerates drought
Soil moisture
suitable for dry soil
Paving
tolerates paving
Winter hardiness zone
6b (-20,5 to -17,8 °C)
Wind resistance
slightly susceptible
Other resistances
resistant to frost (WH 1 - 6)
Fauna tree
valuable for bees (honey plant), valuable for butterflies
Application
avenues and broad streets, industrial areas
Shape
clearstem tree, multi-stem treem
Origin
South Europe, North Africa, West Africa
Clear stem tree Multi-stem tree clay soil loamy soil nutrient-poor soil sandy soil tolerates paving resistant to frost (WH 1 - 6) suitable for dry soil 1st size , taller than 12 metres half-open crown green green average growing all species valuable for bees (honey plant) valuable for butterflies non-toxic (usually) Ornamental fruit Tree for the future
Possibly of interest
Frequently asked questions
Celtis australis

Celtis australis can eventually reach a height of 10 - 15 (20) m, depending on the site and climate conditions.

Celtis australis is average growing and can eventually reach a height of 10 - 15 (20) m, depending on the site and climate conditions.

The leaves of Celtis australis turn yellow in autumn.

The right time to plant Celtis australis is during the dormancy period. In Western Europe, Celtis australis with root balls can generally be planted from mid-November to late April, although this depends strongly on the climatic conditions and the species of tree.

Celtis australis blooms in april.
General

Yes, we deliver to the UK. Delivery costs depend on the region and the total order value. Below, you’ll find all the details.

Delivery charges for private customers are calculated based on your region and are visible during the checkout process. We also offer discounts based on the total value of your order:

  • Orders over £1,000: Receive a 50% discount on delivery costs.
  • Orders over £2,000: Delivery is completely free.

Yes, for trees with a size of 50-60 cm girth or larger, additional delivery charges apply due to the need for specialised transport. These costs will be calculated separately and shared with you after your order is placed. We will contact you to discuss the transport options and costs.

Once you add items to your basket and proceed to the checkout, the system will calculate the delivery charges for your region. If your order qualifies for any discounts, they will automatically be applied.

For any questions or specific delivery requests, feel free to contact our customer service team. We’re happy to help arrange the best delivery solution for your order.