Celtis australis

Celtis australis, better known as the European Hackberry, is a large tree commonly found in the south of France. With its beautiful dark green deciduous foliage, it has a spreading to rounded dense habit. It will grow quickly in southern regions, but a bit slower in cooler climates. This sun-loving plant is sensitive to prolonged freezing periods. Often used individually or as a street tree in cities thanks to its good tolerance to pollution, the European Hackberry thrives in deep, moist, and well-drained soil, and can tolerate poor or slightly alkaline soils. Plant it in a sunny position, sheltered from cold winds.

Native to southern Europe and western Asia, Celtis australis is widespread in the Mediterranean region, where it grows in hedges and on slopes. In France, this light-demanding species is found in lowland and low mountain areas, which provide the fertile, deep, moist, and alkaline soils it prefers. The European Hackberry was once cultivated for its edible fruits as well as its flexible and resistant wood, used for making tool handles. Today, it is primarily planted as a shade or street tree, especially in urban areas where it shows excellent tolerance to pollution. This large deciduous tree also exhibits great longevity, sometimes living up to 500 years. It grows rapidly in southern regions, reaching heights of 25m (82ft) with a spread of 15m (49ft). In cooler regions, its growth will be slower and more moderate. It can withstand temperatures as low as -15°C (5°F), but suffers during prolonged cold spells.

At maturity, this single-trunk tree has a spreading and rounded crown. Its foliage is deciduous, with alternate, ovate leaves measuring 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6in) in length, finely toothed and rough. The leaves are shiny dark green on the upper surface, with a greyish underside that turns pale yellow in autumn. The inconspicuous flowering occurs during bud burst. In June, it gives way to small, round, fleshy fruits (drupes) that are green and then turn reddish-black when ripe in early autumn. These fruits are edible and were once used to flavour liqueurs. They are also highly appreciated by birds. The bark of this tree is grey, almost smooth, with numerous shallow longitudinal cracks.

Celtis australis is an easy-to-grow tree, magnificent when planted individually in a park, for example. It is often used as a street tree to line large avenues. It should be planted in a sunny location, sheltered from cold winds in regions north of the Loire River. Make sure to plant it in soil deep enough to allow its roots to develop properly and withstand long periods of summer drought.