Caucasian hackberry
Celtis caucasica
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Pl. F770 — Celtis caucasica
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IOverview
Overview
Caucasian hackberry (Celtis caucasica) is a deciduous tree native to the mountainous regions of Central Asia and the Caucasus. Known for its adaptability, it thrives in various habitats from Afghanistan to Turkey, including parts of Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kirgizstan, Pakistan, Tadzhikistan, and Uzbekistan. This plant is valued not only for its ornamental qualities but also for its edible fruit, which can be enjoyed fresh or used in culinary applications. One distinctive feature of the Caucasian hackberry is its ability to grow well in light soils that are either dry or moist, making it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Caucasian hackberry?
Caucasian hackberry (Celtis caucasica) is a deciduous tree native to the mountainous regions of Central Asia and the Caucasus. Known for its adaptability, it thrives in various habitats from Afghanistan to Turkey, including parts of Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kirgizstan, Pakistan, Tadzhikistan, and Uzbekistan.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Caucasian hackberry thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil that is light (sandy) to medium in texture. It can tolerate dry conditions but also performs well in moist soils. This tree is hardy in zones 5-9, making it suitable for temperate regions. For propagation, seeds or cuttings can be used effectively. The fruit of the Caucasian hackberry is edible and can be enjoyed directly from the plant.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
5-9
Mature size
20.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Caucasian hackberry for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Caucasian hackberry in a sunny spot, and follow these steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
Caucasian hackberry seeds or young plants, garden gloves.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5; ensure containers are at least 12 inches wide.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground, covering them lightly; for transplants, use young plants from a nursery.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged; mulch around the base to retain moisture.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and regular watering during dry spells; prune in late winter or early spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune young plants to shape them, removing any dead or weak branches; no fruit harvest needed for ornamental purposes.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting winter protection.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The Caucasian hackberry's fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. The fruit is often consumed fresh but can also be dried for later use. Skip the detailed recipes; focus on these basic uses instead.
Other uses:Fire starterLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
13 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
13 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 13 native
Europe1 region
native (1)Russia
Asia8 regions
native (8)AfghanistanIranIraqKazakhstanPakistanTurkeyTurkmenistanUzbekistan
Broader regions
native:Kirgizstan, Tadzhikistan, Transcaucasus, West Himalaya
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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