ExploreTree

Hackberry

Celtis occidentalis

The Hackberry tree has rough bark and produces small berries that are tasty for birds. It’s a great home for many animals!

Habitat: Open woods and fields

Appearance

The Hackberry is known for its distinctive warty, cork-like bark, which sets it apart from other trees. Its simple, oval leaves have uneven bases, and it produces small, dark purple, berry-like fruits that cling to branches through winter.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderRosalesFamilyCannabaceaeGenusCeltis

Hackberry

Interesting facts

Hackberry wood is tough and bendy, once used for old-fashioned wagon wheels!

Its bark is so unique, it feels like sandpaper and has cool, warty ridges!

Some tiny insects make fuzzy 'galls' on Hackberry leaves that look like tiny horns!

The Hackberry's sweet, purplish fruit tastes like dates and can be eaten by people!

Special abilities

Hackberry has unique corky bark that protects it from physical damage and helps it endure harsh weather conditions.

Hackberry produces small, sweet berries that remain on branches, providing crucial food for wildlife during cold winter months.

Hackberry can tolerate pollution, poor soil, and drought, allowing it to thrive in challenging urban environments.

Measurements & details

Height: 12-25 m
Canopy Spread: 10-15 m
Is Edible: Yes
Trunk Diameter: 30-100 cm
Lifespan: 100-200 years
Fruit Type: Drupe
Growth Rate: Medium
Leaf Type: Deciduous

Ecological connections

shelters

Hackberry

Celtis occidentalis

Provides nesting sites for birds.

eats

Hackberry Emperor

Asterocampa celtis

Caterpillars feed on Hackberry leaves.

eats

Eastern Bluebird

Sialia sialis

Feeds on the tree's berries in winter.

eats

Virginia Opossum

Didelphis virginiana

Consumes Hackberry fruit.

Traits

Deciduous

Discover the magic of plants that shed all their leaves during a particular season, often putting on a spectacular show of fall colors first. They get ready for a fresh start!

Shade Tolerant

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Broadleaf Tree

Discover magnificent trees that have wide, flat leaves, unlike the needles of pine trees! These are often the trees that change colors beautifully in autumn.

Fruit Bearing

These amazing plants develop fruits, which often contain seeds and are sometimes delicious treats for us or wildlife. They're nature's way of spreading new life!

Fruit Tree

Discover trees that grow delicious fruits, providing a natural bounty of snacks for people and animals alike. Imagine picking an apple right from the branch!

Forest

These lush habitats are filled with countless trees, offering homes to a huge variety of plants and animals! Immerse yourself in the green canopy.

Longevous

Marvel at organisms that have an incredible capacity to live for a very, very long time, sometimes spanning centuries or even millennia. They are the elders of the natural world!