Source: Wikimedia Commons
Chinese Hackberry
BeginnerCeltis sinensis
Deciduous bonsai bearing small fruits in autumn. Smooth gray bark and natural form are appealing. Birds visiting for fruits add charm. Good root spread.
About
Celtis sinensis, commonly known as Chinese hackberry or Japanese hackberry (Enoki in Japanese), is a deciduous tree in the family Cannabaceae native to slopes and hills of East Asia including China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. It is historically associated with old Japanese roadside landmarks called 'ichirizuka' (one-ri mound markers). In bonsai, it is appreciated for its rough, characterful bark and fine branching structure that resembles zelkova. The small ovate leaves turn yellow to orange-brown in autumn, and the small berries ripen to dark purple, providing food for birds. It is a robust, forgiving species well suited to bonsai cultivation.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Lifespan of the Chinese Hackberry
The Chinese Hackberry lives Centuries.
Size of the Chinese Hackberry
The Chinese Hackberry grows to 10-50cm (bonsai size).
Basic Info
Origin
Eastern Asia including China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam
Lifespan
Centuries
Size
10-50cm (bonsai size)
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Growing Tips
Placement
Outdoor full sun. Good air circulation
Watering
Loves water. Do not let dry in summer
Styling
Natural form works well. Broom or informal upright
Notes
Prone to pests — regular treatment needed
Chinese Hackberry FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Chinese Hackberry?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Chinese Hackberry?
The average lifespan of Chinese Hackberry is Centuries. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Chinese Hackberry get?
The mature size of Chinese Hackberry is 10-50cm (bonsai size). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QWhat is the typical price for Chinese Hackberry?
The price of Chinese Hackberry varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Growing Specifications
- USDA Zone
- 6–7
Sources: Oregon State Univ. Landscape Plants: Celtis sinensis
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Celtis sinensis Pers.
Synonyms: Celtis hunanensis Hand.-Mazz., Celtis labilis C.K.Schneid., Celtis bodinieri H.Lév., Celtis cercidifolia C.K.Schneid., Sponia willdenowiana G.Don, Celtis willdenowiana Schult.
Authority databases: GBIF · POWO
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Sources: CITES Checklist of CITES Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
Related Articles
Complete Bonsai Tree Selection & Development Roadmap for Beginners | Phase-by-Phase Management Strategy from Year 1 to Year 5
Bonsai success for beginners depends on choosing the right tree species. This guide details the process of selecting beginner-friendly species like five-needle pine and common juniper, and developing them into refined bonsai through phased management over five years. We provide a five-year roadmap that advances through tree form foundation building, adjustment, and completion.
Bonsai Aged Wood Techniques | Creating Branch Aging Expression and Tree Age Aesthetics
Explains techniques for creating bonsai that appear aged from young stock. Introduces practical methods for expressing tree age aesthetics, from bark texture and branch structure to root development expression and changes over time.
How to Prevent Fertilizer Burn in Bonsai | Determining the Right Fertilizer Amount and Concentration
Why does fertilizer burn occur in bonsai? This explains the mechanism of osmotic pressure, how to identify early symptoms such as browning of leaf tips, why it occurs easily in midsummer and right after repotting, and emergency measures and preventive strategies.
A Guide to Giving Bonsai as Gifts | Appropriate Species and Etiquette for Longevity Celebrations and Business Opening Celebrations
This guide explains how to choose bonsai species and proper etiquette when giving bonsai as gifts for celebrations. It introduces recommended species for different occasions such as longevity celebrations and business opening celebrations, as well as how to choose species while considering management requirements.
🩺 Common diseases
Can't find the plant you're looking for?
Post your wishes for free and growers with matching plants will contact you with introductions.