Chinese Elm Trees: The Invasive Beauty
Chinese Celtis Elm Trees, while beautiful, are considered invasive weed species that can quickly grow into large destructive trees if not managed properly. Their presence is often found near structures or fences, as they are spread by bird or flying foxes droppings, and birds are attracted to resting on these structures.
Chinese Elm (Celtis sinensis) at a glance:
Serrated edges on green leaves
Light green to silver coloured bark when young
Grey and smooth textured bark when older
One of the key identifiers of these trees is their distinct features. They have serrated edges on their green leaves, which provide a unique texture. When young, their bark is light green to silver in color, which adds a striking contrast to their surroundings. As they mature, the bark turns grey and develops a smooth texture, giving them a more distinguished appearance.
This tree is a tough one. It can withstand many conditions, which has made one of the most invasive trees around Brisbane, Ipswich, and South East Queensland. It lives well along ocean coastlines or in Suburbia, happy in pots, and is loves almost almost any weather. It forms dense thickets in disturbed riparian sites and prevents the regeneration of indigenous flora. It also sucks up water and has the potential to affect populations of native animals through habitat destruction.
Chinese Elm trees are known pests in the Ipswich City Council region, requiring careful management to prevent them from spreading uncontrollably. Chinese Elms are a category 3 restricted invasive plant under the Biosecurity Act 2014. It must not be given away, sold, or released into the environment. To control their growth, regular pruning is essential. Additionally, removing any seedlings or saplings that may sprout nearby can help prevent their spread.
If you have a Chinese Elm and it’s starting to cause leafy problems to your property, now is the time to act. Engaging with an experienced arborist, like the leafy experts at Briens Tree Solutions is a must to ensure the entire tree is removed (including the roots below).
Once a weed is removed it should be replaced by a native species, and Ipswich City Council has a great Free Plant Program running that residents can utilise at Queens Park Nursery.
Need a leafy problem out of your life? We’ll solve it; enquire here.