Common Hackberry
Celtis occidentalis · Deciduous Broadleaf
Plant Family
Cannabaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree / Forest Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Native species (no specific cultivar visible)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 3 through 9
About This Tree
A medium to large tree with a broad, rounded crown and slightly drooping branches. It is known for its distinctive cork-like bark and its ability to survive in a wide range of soil conditions. Often grows with a somewhat irregular, spreading form in the wild.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate arrangement; ovate to oblong-lanceolate shape with an asymmetrical (skewed) base; coarsely serrated margins except near the base; 2-5 inches long; dull green with a rough, sandpaper-like texture on top; turns a modest yellow in fall.
Bark Characteristics
Light gray to silvery-gray; characterized by unique, corky, wart-like ridges and protrusions that develop as the tree matures; very distinctive and easy to identify in winter.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Central and Northeastern North America, from southern Canada to the central United States.
Growing Season
Leafs out in late spring (April/May); flowers briefly in spring; fruits ripen in late summer to autumn; enters dormancy in late October or November.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade; highly adaptable to various moisture levels; once established, it is very drought-tolerant and can handle occasional flooding.
Mature Size
40-60 feet height, 40-60 feet spread; moderate growth rate; can live 150-200 years.
Special Characteristics
Highly tolerant of urban pollution, wind, and alkaline soils. Common host for the Hackberry Emperor butterfly and often exhibits 'witches' broom' (clusters of twiggy growth) caused by mites/fungi which does not significantly harm the tree.
Wildlife & Ecology
Produces small, dark purple drupes (berries) that are a vital food source for birds (cedar waxwings, robins) and small mammals; host plant for the Hackberry Emperor, Tawny Emperor, and Question Mark butterflies.