Hackberry

Celtis occidentalis

Celtis occidentalis, commonly known as the common hackberry or American hackberry, is a species of deciduous tree native to North America. It belongs to the Cannabaceae family, which also includes hemp and hops.

The common hackberry is a medium to large-sized tree that typically grows to heights of 40 to 80 feet, with a rounded crown and a straight trunk. It has gray to light brown bark that is corky and warty in texture, with ridges and furrows that become more pronounced with age.

The leaves of the common hackberry are alternate, simple, and serrated, with an ovate to elliptical shape. They are dark green in color and turn yellow to orange in the fall before dropping. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in spring, followed by small, berry-like fruits that ripen to a dark purple color in late summer to early fall. These fruits are a food source for birds and other wildlife.

Common hackberry is typically found growing in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, floodplains, and along stream banks. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and moisture conditions, making it adaptable to different environments.

In addition to its ecological importance as a food source for wildlife, common hackberry is valued as an ornamental tree in landscaping and urban forestry. It is planted for its attractive foliage, interesting bark texture, and tolerance to urban conditions such as pollution and drought. Additionally, the wood of common hackberry is sometimes used in woodworking for furniture, cabinetry, and tool handles.