Celtis occidentalis (Hackberry)

Celtis occidentalis, commonly called hackberry, is a large native tree commonly found on river banks and in wet, low-lying floodplain areas. Hackberry grows to 50-70' tall and the bark of young trees stands out in the environment, with clumpy warts that mature to corky ridges as trees age. With wide adaptability to soil conditions and tolerance to heat, drought, and salt, Celtis occidentalis is a great choice for lawn plantings and for naturalization in woodland gardens.

In the spring months, insignificant flowers are produced along hackberry's branches, which turn to purplish berry-like fruits in the warmer summer months, and persist through the early fall. Hackberries are a favorite of birds and small mammals, and this wildlife interest helps to disperse hackberry seeds; in addition, Celtis occidentalis berries are edible for people too, with some describing the nutty fruits as tasting like dates or butternut squash. An important plant for birds and wildlife, and a unique addition to any large landscape, hackberry is a beautiful tree with a lot of versatility.