The Rugged Hackberry Tree

Jan 11th, 2009 by tommy

The common Hackberry tree (Celtis occidentalis) is native to eastern North America. It can grow to heights of 50 feet or more and be just as wide.

When the Hackberry tree slowly leafs out in mid spring, it produces bright green, finely toothed leaves that are 3-5 inches long. In late summer, the Hackberry fruit begins to ripen. These small, berries are very attractive to birds and can be made into jams and jellies. In autumn, leaves turn yellow and fall revealing the oddest bark that may resemble layered cork or even be covered in warts and ridges.

The best attribute of the common Hackberry tree is its durability. It is well adapted to all areas of the United States. Its deep rooting capabilities make the Hackberry tree very well suited to dry desert heat and alkaline soils. As the tree matures, its need for supplemental water is almost nill making it ideal for areas prone to drought. The common Hackberry also makes a wonderful street tree as its growth is slower and rooting is deeper than some other choices which may damage sidewalks or driveways.

As a child in Oklahoma, I can recall a particularly nice Hackberry tree that stood near our driveway. I spent many hours climbing this great example of the time tested durability of this species. Berries appeared on this tree sporadically throughout the years. When an old couple in our neighborhood routinely asked if they could have some for jelly, I knew there must be something to these “purple peas”.

My family now has our own Hackberry tree we planted in 2007. It is about fifteen feet high and nowhere near the size for climbing. Our two boys will be past the age of interest in scaling trees when it matures. I guess the grandkids will be the ones to climb our rugged Hackberry.