Celtis occidentalis

Hackberry

Mature hackberries are upright with a vase-shaped to spreading growth habit and light to medium green leaves. As the tree ages, the gray bark develops a corky, attractive texture.

Small, round, dark purple fruits form in late summer and persist into winter, providing food for birds and other wildlife. Trees also provide cover and nesting sites for birds. 

This tree survives harsh conditions including extreme cold, heat, high pH soils, road salt, and flooding. As such, it makes a good large street tree. Hackberry is also a great choice for parking lots, tree pits, urban settings, and commercial sites. It is also a good choice for parks and larger backyards. 

  • Native, deciduous tree
  • Well adapted to tough growing conditions
  • Good large street tree

  • Category: Tree, Native
  • Hardiness Zone: 3-9
  • Height: 40-60 ft
  • Spread: 40-50 ft
  • Foliage Color: Green
Login for pricing
Classification by Use
Native
Shade Tree
Street Tree
Attracts Wildlife
Attracts Songbirds
Habit
Spreading
Light Requirement
Full Sun
Foliage
Deciduous
Season of Interest (Flowering)
Spring
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Moisture
Average Water
Foliage Color
Green
Attributes
Heat Tolerant
Low Maintenance
Native
Growing & Maintenance Tips for Celtis occidentalis

The native hackberry is well adapted to cold, heat, flooding, and high pH soils.