Hero

My Garden

Celtis occidentalis
common hackberry
Celtis occidentalis
Celtis occidentalis, commonly known as Hackberry, is a medium to large-sized deciduous tree native to North America. It's known for its distinctive warty bark, tolerance of a wide range of soil conditions, and ability to withstand urban pollution. Hackberry provides valuable habitat and food for wildlife. It is also used as a street tree due to its resilience.
CategoryDetails
Plant TypePerennial plant
Estimated Plant Lifespan80 years lifespan
Sun Requirements6+ hours direct sunlight (Full Sun)
Pollination

Method: wind

Watering Requirements

Method: Top water

Frequency: Water regularly, especially during dry periods, until established. Once established, Hackberry is relatively drought-tolerant.

Notes: Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

Humidity Requirements

Level: Moderate

Care InstructionsPrune young trees to establish a strong central leader. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Mature trees require minimal pruning.
Temperature Range

Min: -34°C

Max: 38°C

Alternative Nameshackberry, Nettle-tree, spice-berry, beaverwood, pompion berry, northern hackberry, American hackberry
Cornus florida
flowering dogwood
Cornus florida
Dogwoods benefit from the light shade provided by Hackberry, while both species enjoy similar soil conditions.
Asimina triloba
common pawpaw
Asimina triloba
Pawpaws thrive in the understory of larger trees like Hackberry, benefiting from partial shade and wind protection.
Quercus alba
white oak
Quercus alba
Hackberry and White Oak are often found growing together in similar habitats, benefiting from mutual support and shared soil conditions. White Oaks are slow-growing and benefit from the quick shade provided by Hackberry in their early years.
Acer negundo
box elder
Acer negundo

Boxelder can aggressively compete with Hackberry for resources, especially sunlight and water, hindering the growth and establishment of Hackberry seedlings.

Ulmus americana
American elm
Ulmus americana

American Elm, particularly if healthy and vigorous, can compete strongly with Hackberry for nutrients and space, potentially suppressing its growth.

Hackberry Nipplegall Maker

This insect causes distinctive nipple-shaped galls on the leaves. While unsightly, they rarely cause serious damage to the tree's overall health.

Hackberry Psyllids

These small, sap-sucking insects can cause leaf distortion and honeydew production, which may attract ants. Heavy infestations can weaken the tree.

Spider Mites

These tiny pests can cause stippling on the leaves and webbing. They thrive in hot, dry conditions and can damage Hackberry trees, especially young ones.

Steps:

    • Collect ripe hackberry fruits in the fall.
    • Remove the pulp from the seeds and clean them thoroughly.
    • Stratify the seeds by storing them in moist sand in a refrigerator for at least 60-90 days to break dormancy.
    • Sow the seeds in a prepared seedbed or pots in the spring.
    • Keep the soil moist and provide partial shade until the seedlings are established.
    • Transplant the seedlings to their permanent location after they have developed a strong root system.

Neem Oil

Effective against spider mites and psyllids on Hackberry trees.

Insecticidal Soap

Controls psyllids and other soft-bodied insects.

Mycorrhizal Inoculant

Enhances root development and nutrient uptake, promoting healthy growth.