Celtis australis

Celtis australis is a deciduous tree with spreading branches growing up to

25m tall. The leaves are simple, ovate –lanceolate, 5–15 cm long, serrate
with an acuminate or twisted apex. The leaf resembles that of the nettle,
hence one of the tree’s common names. It is in flower in April, and the
seeds ripen in October. The species is hermaphrodite and is pollinated
by bees. The mature fruits are brown or red edible drupes of about 1 cm
diameter with a single large seed. Oil is obtained from the seed.
It grows in the open place. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate
drought. The nettle tree is mainly used for afforestation of difficult terrains
and erosion control, and in urban environments because it tolerates city air
pollution.
Ethnobotanical use: The leaves and fruit are astringent, lenitive and
stomachic. The leaves are gathered in early summer and dried for later
use. The fruit, particularly before it is fully ripe, is considered to be
more effective medicinally. A decoction of leaves and fruits is prepared
for the treatment of amenorrhoea, heavy menstrual and intermenstrual
bleeding and colic. The decoction can also be used to astringe the mucous
membranes in the treatment of diarrhoea, dysentery and peptic ulcers. The
wood is particularly water-resistant and long-lasting.
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Nepali name : Khari
English name : Honey berry tree; Southern
nettle tree
Scientific name : Celtis australis Linn.
Family : Cannabaceae
Location :

Celtis australis