Four-stamen hackberry Chinese (Celtis tetrandra subsp. sinensis)

Chinese hackberry East Asian hackberry Japanese hackberry
Silhouette: T. Michael Keesey / License

Celtis tetrandra subsp. sinensis: East Asian Hackberry Guide

Thriving across the vast forest ecosystems of East Asia, this deciduous tree plays a vital role in local biodiversity. Its robust growth habit makes it a preferred choice for urban greening and slope stabilization. Botanical experts value the subspecies for its adaptability to diverse soil conditions and tolerance to environmental stressors.

Taxonomy

  • царство Plantae
  • division Tracheophytes (Vascular Plants)
  • subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
  • Angiosperms
  • mesangiosperms
  • eudicots
  • Superrosids
  • rosids
  • order Rosales
  • family Cannabaceae (Hemp family)
  • genus Celtis (Hackberry)
  • species Celtis tetrandra (Four-stamened hackberry)
  • subspecies Celtis tetrandra subsp. sinensis (Four-stamen hackberry Chinese)

Living Pulse

Morphology

This deciduous tree typically reaches heights of up to 20 meters, developing a broad, rounded crown. The leaves exhibit a characteristic asymmetric shape, featuring serrated margins and a strongly oblique base. Greenish flowers appear in early spring, eventually developing into globose, orange-red drupes that sweeten as they ripen.

Flowering season

Spring

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Name
Dec

Applications

The resilient wood is highly valued in local carpentry for crafting tools, furniture, and agricultural implements. Additionally, the edible drupes serve as an important food source for birds and small mammals, supporting local wildlife. In traditional landscapes, it is frequently cultivated as a majestic shade tree or trained as bonsai.

Interesting facts

  • The fruits change color from light green to vibrant orange-red upon reaching maturity.
  • Its root system is exceptionally deep, making it excellent for preventing soil erosion on steep hillsides.
  • Many specimen trees in historical East Asian gardens have lived for several centuries, serving as living cultural landmarks.

Geography of distribution

  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • Taiwan

Technical Information

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

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