Celtis boninensis

Koidz.

Cannabaceae Edible: Fruit 29 iNaturalist observations

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Summary

A deciduous tree with hermaphroditic flowers pollinated by bees. Tolerates light sandy and medium loamy well-drained soils in mildly acid, neutral, or basic pH. Cannot grow in shade. Prefers dry to moist soils and tolerates drought.

Description

Edible Uses

The fruit is edible, though no further details are recorded. Based on the nature of the species, there is likely to be very little flesh around the seed, and that flesh is likely to be dry and mealy.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Distribution

It is a temperate plant.

Where It Grows

Asia, Japan,

Cultivation

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in any reasonably good soil, preferring a good fertile well-drained loamy soil. Succeeds on dry gravels and on sandy soils. Established plants are very drought resistant. Trees prefer hotter summers and more sunlight than are normally experienced in Britain, they often do not fully ripen their wood when growing in this country and they are then very subject to die-back in winter. Trees can be very long-lived, perhaps to 1000 years. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus.

Propagation

Sow seed as soon as ripe in a cold frame for best results. Stored seed should receive 2–3 months of cold stratification before sowing in February or March in a greenhouse. Germination is generally good, though stored seed may take 12 months or longer to germinate, and seed can be stored for up to 5 years. Prick seedlings into individual pots as soon as they are large enough to handle. Seedling leaves often show white patches lacking chlorophyll, which is normal; older plants produce fully green leaves. Grow seedlings in a cold frame through their first winter and plant out the following late spring or early summer, with protection from cold during their first winter outdoors. Can also be propagated by cuttings.