Discover the enchanting Celtis africana, commonly known as African Hackberry or White Stinkwood, a versatile and beautiful deciduous tree perfect for enhancing any garden or landscape. While it can soar to 80 ft in its native forest habitat, in a garden setting, it thrives as a medium-sized tree, reaching up to 40 ft. Its distinctive trunk, with smooth, pale grey to white bark, offers a striking contrast to the lush, light green foliage that emerges each spring. As the leaves mature, they darken and smoothen, complementing the tree's dense, semi-circular canopy.
Celtis africana is more than just a visual delight. In spring, it produces inconspicuous star-like flowers that attract bees, followed by masses of small berry-like fruits favored by various birds, aiding in seed dispersal. Its wood, though not commercially valuable, is culturally significant and used for crafting and believed to possess magical properties.
Adaptable to a wide range of habitats, this tree is drought-resistant, frost-tolerant, and ideal for larger gardens, parks, and even as a street tree. Its capacity to provide shade makes it a superb choice for cooling homes and parking lots in summer, while allowing sunlight during winter. It's an easy-to-grow species, perfect for bonsai enthusiasts, providing not just aesthetic appeal but also a sustainable gardening experience. Cultivate your own Celtis africana effortlessly from freshly collected seed, ensuring a lush, vibrant addition to your environment.