Common Hackberry
Celtis occidentalis · Deciduous Broadleaf
Plant Family
Cannabaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree / Forest Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Native species (Common Hackberry)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 2 through 9.
About This Tree
A medium to large hardy tree with a distinctive rounded, spreading crown and arching branches. Known for its tough, resilient nature and unique corky bark. It grows moderately fast and develops into a sturdy shade provider.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate arrangement. Leaves are ovate to oblong-ovate, 2-5 inches long, with an asymmetrical (skewed) base. They have serrated margins, a rough sandpaper-like texture on the upper surface, and prominent pinnate veining. Forest green in summer, turning a soft yellow in fall.
Bark Characteristics
Highly distinctive light gray to grayish-brown bark featuring unique 'cork-like' ridges or warty protuberances. On older trees, these ridges become more pronounced and irregular.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Central and Northeastern North America; widespread from southern Canada to the central United States.
Growing Season
Bud break occurs in mid-spring; inconspicuous flowers appear in April-May; drupes ripen in September-October; enters dormancy after shedding leaves in late autumn.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Adapts to Full Sun or Partial Shade. Highly adaptable to various moisture levels; prefers moist, well-drained soils but is exceptionally drought-tolerant once established. Can withstand occasional flooding.
Mature Size
Reaches 40-60 feet in height with a similar spread. Can live 150-200 years. Trunk diameter typically ranges from 1-3 feet at maturity.
Special Characteristics
Excellent tolerance to urban pollution, wind, and alkaline soils. Features high timber value for furniture and crates. Noted for its resistance to many common pests, though often displays 'witches' broom' (deformed twig growth) which is largely cosmetic.
Wildlife & Ecology
Critical ecological value; the small, dark-purple drupes (berries) are a vital food source for winter birds (like cedar waxwings and robins) and small mammals. It is a larval host for several butterflies, including the Hackberry Emperor and Mourning Cloak.