Name
Hackberry
Scientific Name
Celtis occidentalis
Wildlife Value
Good
Average Height
70'
Origin
Native
Shade Tolerance
Moderate
Drought Tolerance
Fair
Growth Rate
Rapid
Fruit
Berry
Special Characteristics
Member of Elm Family
Seedling Size
12" to 18"
General Description
Hackberry is a moderately long-lived hardwood considered to be heavy in weight.  The hackberry is easily distinguished from elms and some other hackberries by its cork-like bark with wart-like protuberances. It produces small berries that turn orange-red to dark purple in the Autumn, often staying on the trees for several months. Birds and small animals adore the hackberry fruit, allowing for the seed to be widely dispersed. It prefers rich moist soil, but will grow on gravelly or rocky hillsides. The roots grow very deep and rapidly. In favorable conditions a hackberry tree can live over a hundred years. Not susceptible to serious disease.
 
Uses
The hackberry is often used in landscape planting as a substitute for elm. Hackberry is often used in wind break plantings to control wind erosion. Used for fencing and cheap furniture.