Celtis australis

Celtis australis, the European nettle tree or hackberry, is a deciduous tree of the Ulmaceae family from southern Europe and western Asia, widely planted as an ornamental in gardens and urban areas.

Characteristics
A medium to large tree reaching 15-25 m, with a rounded crown and a straight trunk. The bark is smooth and light grey when young, becoming rougher and fissured with age. The leaves are oval to lanceolate, bright green above and paler beneath, toothed along the margin, 5-10 cm long, turning yellow in autumn. The tiny greenish spring flowers are followed by small round fruits that ripen from orange to purplish black and are eaten by birds.

Growing and care
Sun and any well drained soil, including poor, stony or calcareous ground; extremely tolerant of drought, heat, wind, pollution and root restriction, which makes it a first class street tree. Prune in winter to raise and balance the crown.

Uses
Streets, squares, car parks, avenues and large gardens, planted for durable shade in difficult urban sites.