Celtis boninensis
Celtis boninensisfam. Urticaceae
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Pl. 6C49 — Celtis boninensis
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IOverview
Overview
Celtis boninensis, known as the Bonin hackberry, is a deciduous tree native to Japan's Nansei-shoto and Ogasawara-shoto islands. This member of the Celtidaceae family thrives in full sun with a preference for dry to moist conditions and light or medium soil types. The plant is notable for its edible fruit, which makes it a valuable resource in its native range. Its adaptability to various soil conditions and climate preferences make it an interesting addition to botanical gardens and parks where space and environmental conditions are well-suited to this unique tree.
Quick answers
What is Celtis boninensis?
Celtis boninensis, known as the Bonin hackberry, is a deciduous tree native to Japan's Nansei-shoto and Ogasawara-shoto islands. This member of the Celtidaceae family thrives in full sun with a preference for dry to moist conditions and light or medium soil types.
What is Celtis boninensis used for?
Traditionally used for immune support. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 1 evidence-ranked use of Celtis boninensis
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
1 claim · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
1 claim · 0 sources- Celtis boninensis is traditionally used in Japanese herbal medicine to support the immune system, often prepared as a tea. It may help maintain overall health during seasonal changes.
The mechanism by which Celtis boninensis supports immunity is not fully characterised but may involve antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that enhance immune function.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Celtis boninensis support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Celtis boninensis thrives in full sun and prefers a well-draining soil that is either light (sandy) or medium. It can tolerate dry conditions but also performs well in moist soils. This tree is hardy in temperate regions and is native to Japan, Nansei-shoto, and Ogasawara-shoto. For propagation, consider using seeds or cuttings. The fruit of this plant is edible.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
For first-time growers
How to grow Celtis boninensis for the first time
7steps
Start with a simple planting of Skip to gain experience in caring for this unique tree.
- 1
What you'll need
Skip saplings, well-draining soil, and a container or garden space.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip during the spring when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is light (sandy) to medium in texture. For containers, use a pot with good drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Skip saplings into your prepared garden bed or container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the plant sparingly but thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and avoid overwatering. Prune lightly if needed, focusing on removing any dead or crossing branches.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Skip is primarily grown for its ornamental value rather than harvesting. Focus on maintaining the tree's shape through light pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Celtis boninensis is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. It is often consumed fresh but may also be dried for later use. Skip the preparation details to maintain brevity.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 3 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Japan
Broader regions
native:Nansei-shoto, Ogasawara-shoto
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Urticaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Urticaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
XII
About this entry
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- Citation
- How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · 6c49b5e7-9903-48fd-a6d7-4df7b34d22b3
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