European Nettle Tree

Celtis australis (European Nettle Tree)

European Nettle Tree ‘Celtis australis’ is a medium to fast growing deciduous tree originally from Southern Europe. Regarded as drought tolerant once established the European Nettle Tree will reach 15m under ideal conditions although often smaller.

Foliage is a nice green turning yellow in Autumn. Frost tolerant and generally a fairly tough tree suited to Mediterranean climates. Also known as European Hackberry

‘Celtis australis’ is used as a shade tree in parks and gardens. This tree does not like wet ground, so drainage is important. Can tend to be a little invasive as it is easily spread by seeds carried by birds. It is a little to tall growing to be suited to growing beneath power lines, and to broad in the crown for narrow confines..

Celtis australis Summary Information.

• Height – Will reach from 9 – 12 metres in most conditions and up to 15 metres
• Spread – will form a broad crown to around 9 metres. The canopy formed will be dense on a well grown specimen.
• Growth Rate – Moderate to Fast.
• Position – Full sun, although will tolerate some shade.
• Soil – Humus rich well drained although will tolerate a wide range of soils, including poor soils and clay soils.
• Foliage – Mid green with serrated leaf margins
• Flowers – Inconspicuous.
• Frost tolerant – Yes
• Wind Tolerant – Yes
• Drought Tolerant – Yes