Oriental hackberry
Celtis tournefortiifam. Urticaceae
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Pl. 39B9 — Celtis tournefortii
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IOverview
Overview
Oriental hackberry, scientifically known as Celtis tournefortii, is a deciduous tree native to regions including Bulgaria, Cyprus, Greece, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon-Syria, and parts of Turkey. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types ranging from light (sandy) to medium. It is hardy in zones 6-9 and grows up to 8 meters tall. Known for its edible fruit, Oriental hackberry serves as a valuable resource in areas where it naturally occurs. Its distinctive feature lies in its ability to grow in diverse environments while providing sustenance through its fruits.
Quick answers
What is Oriental hackberry?
Oriental hackberry, scientifically known as Celtis tournefortii, is a deciduous tree native to regions including Bulgaria, Cyprus, Greece, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon-Syria, and parts of Turkey.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Oriental hackberry thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soils that are light (sandy) or medium-textured. It is adaptable to both dry and moist conditions but generally requires less water once established. The plant is hardy in zones 6-9, making it suitable for temperate regions. For propagation, use seeds or cuttings. This tree can grow up to 8 meters tall and produces edible fruit, adding a unique touch to your garden while providing a food source.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
6-9
Mature size
8.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Oriental hackberry for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Oriental hackberry in a sunny spot, and it will thrive with minimal care.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, a trowel, and some compost.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in autumn before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and prepare by mixing in compost.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start young plants indoors and transplant them later.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist until germination. Once established, reduce watering.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure and water only when the soil is dry. Prune in late winter or early spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches as needed, typically in late winter.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common pitfalls.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The Oriental hackberry's fruit 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 specific recipes; focus on these basic uses instead.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
13 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
13 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 13 native
Europe5 regions
native (5)BulgariaCyprusGreeceItalyUkraine
Asia3 regions
native (3)IranIraqTurkey
Broader regions
native:East Aegean Is., Kriti, Lebanon-Syria, Transcaucasus, Yugoslavia
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.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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