Common Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis)
$40.00
Category: Trees | Windbreak | Wildlife | Bird Habitat | Drought Tolerant | Dry Site | Urban Site | Sandy Site | Mesic Site | Moist Site | Erosion Control | Shaded Site | GreatPlants for the Great Plains
The Common Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis) is a tough, adaptable native tree that thrives where other species struggle. Known for its rugged corky bark and resilience in urban and rural environments, Hackberry handles drought, wind, pollution, and poor soils with ease.
This moderate to fast grower is highly valued for wildlife habitat, especially by birds such as robins, quail, and cedar waxwings, which feed on its small purple drupes through fall and winter. These berry-like fruits persist into the cold months, providing a critical late-season food source when few others remain.
Hackberry also serves as a host plant for numerous butterflies, including the Hackberry Emperor, Tawny Emperor, and Mourning Cloak—making it a key species for pollinator and biodiversity support. With its bright green summer foliage and soft yellow fall color, this tree offers beauty and ecological benefit year-round.
Recognized as the 2020 Urban Tree of the Year by the Society of Municipal Arborists, Hackberry continues to be a dependable choice for streetscapes, shelterbelts, and restoration projects across the Great Plains and Midwest.
Planting & Care
Plant in full sun to part shade and well-drained soil. Hackberry tolerates drought, wind, heat, and compacted urban soils, making it one of the most versatile native trees available. Water regularly during establishment and mulch to conserve moisture.
NATIVE RANGE
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Larger sizes available for local customers.
Check availability here.
Additional information
| Scientific Name | Celtis occidentalis |
|---|---|
| Height | 50-75' |
| Spread | 50' |
| Shape | Spreading, rounded |
| Foliage | Bright green |
| Fall Foliage | Soft yellow |
| Native To | Eastern Midwest Region, Eastern U.S., Great Lakes Region, NE, Northern Plains States, Southern Plain States, West Region of US |
| Zone | 2 |
| Size | 1 gallon |
