Celtis occidentalis – Common hackberry

This deciduous tree native tree to the Eastern United States grows up to 40 to 60 feet in height and 1 to 2 feet in diameter, sometimes up to 130 feet and a diameter of 4 feet or more. It has a straight central trunk and an ovoid crown with a cylindrical shape once mature. Grows in most types of soil from the poorest to the richest. Considered by tree experts to be “one tough tree”, tolerates drought. Forms corky bark, with ridges. It has a broad crown with arching branches.

Transplanted easily, will tolerate part shade, and wind as well as pollutants.

Best grown in moist, organically rich, well-drained soils in full sun.

Does not do well with maritime exposure.

The wood is heavy, rather soft and weak. It decays quickly when exposed to moisture. The branches can tend to droop.

These trees can live 150 to 200 years.

Edible drupes of berry-like fruits give the tree winter interest. Fruits attract birds, especially cedar waxwing, mockingbird, and robin, as well as various butterfly species.