Celtis australis
Celtis australis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Celtis australis, commonly known as the European nettle tree, is a resilient species frequently utilized in specialized botanical applications. While the tree thrives in diverse landscapes, its chemical properties are particularly noted for their interaction with corrosive environments. Researchers often focus on the development of specific preparations derived from its various parts. These potent extracts are studied for their unique ability to mitigate the effects of chemical degradation. Understanding the biological makeup of this plant provides essential insights into managing corrosion through natural means.
- Synonyms
- Celtis Betulifolia · Celtis Lutea · 4 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Cannabaceae
- Distribution
- Asia-Tropical
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Celtis australis is a versatile species known by a variety of descriptive names across different regions. It is frequently referred to as the common European hackberry or the common Mediterranean hackberry depending on the local context. In other parts of the world, the tree is recognized as the common European nettletree or the Southern Nettle Tree. Some traditional circles even use the specific name common Sindha taga to identify this plant. This diversity in nomenclature highlights the widespread presence and cultural significance of the species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Celtis australis is a complex species that has been historically categorized under several different botanical names. Throughout various studies, it has been identified by synonyms such as Celtis betulifolia and Celtis lutea. The plant's diverse morphological traits also led to the classification of Celtis kotschyana and the variety known as Celtis australis var. panormitana. Furthermore, specific ornamental forms have been documented as Celtis australis f. variegata. Understanding these taxonomic relationships is essential for accurately identifying this versatile tree in different regions.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Celtis australis belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, encompassing a diverse array of life forms. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further resides in the order Rosales, showcasing its evolutionary connections to other prominent plant groups. As a member of the family Cannabaceae, it shares botanical traits with its close relatives. Ultimately, this tree is defined by its placement within the genus Celtis.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Cannabaceae |
| Genus | Celtis |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Celtis australis is a resilient species with a broad geographic range spanning several key regions. Its distribution extends across Africa and the Macaronesian islands, including the unique landscapes of Madeira and the Canary Islands. Within the African continent, the plant is particularly prominent throughout Northern Africa. Specifically, it can be found thriving in the diverse environments of Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia. This wide presence highlights the plant's adaptability to various Mediterranean and subtropical climates.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Celtis australis is a self-supporting plant characterized by its distinct growth form as a tree. This species typically reaches a minimum height of 10 meters as it matures. Under optimal conditions, it can achieve a maximum height of up to 30 meters. Such impressive stature makes it a prominent feature in its natural landscape.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Celtis australis acts as a natural corrosion inhibitor for Nickel-Titanium-based orthodontic wires. In electrochemical studies, extracts from this plant are tested against electrolytes to assess their ability to mitigate metal degradation. The research compares the effectiveness of such plant extracts to traditional substances like sodium fluoride. By utilizing anodic potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, the inhibitory impact of Celtis australis on NiTi and CuNiTi wires can be measured. This relationship positions the plant as a potential biological alternative for protecting orthodontic appliances from corrosive environments.
Preparations
Celtis australis is prepared as extracts to be used in the study of corrosion inhibition. These specific plant extracts were incorporated into Lactate Ringer solutions at varying concentrations. The researchers utilized these preparations to evaluate their electrochemical impact on Nickel-Titanium-based orthodontic wires. By testing these extracts, the study aimed to assess their potential as natural alternatives to sodium fluoride. Consequently, the extracts of Celtis australis served as a key component in measuring the corrosion resistance of both NiTi and CuNiTi wires.