
Photos are representative and may not match your specific variety.
Hackberry
Shade treeCeltis occidentalis
- Partial sun
- Zones 3–9
- 60 days to maturity
- Flowers
- 420" spacing
- Low water
- pH 6–8
Overview
A tough, adaptable native tree that thrives where other shade trees struggle, making it perfect for challenging sites and urban environments. This undemanding tree grows quickly into a graceful, vase-shaped canopy that provides excellent filtered shade through its small, elm-like leaves. Wildlife enthusiasts love hackberry for its small berries that feed over 40 bird species throughout fall and winter.
Planting
Seeds need 60-90 days cold stratification. Plant nursery trees in spring or fall.
Growing
Sun: partial. Water: low. Soil pH: 6–8. Space plants 420" apart. Germination: 30-60.
Pests & diseases
Common pests: Hackberry nipple gall, witches broom, psyllids. Common diseases: Generally disease-free, occasional witches broom.