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Celtis occidentalis

common hackberry

A large, spreading, deciduous tree to a height of 20m with dark green lance-shaped leaves. Greenish flowers in spring are followed by small sweet, edible fruits that mature from orange-red to dark purple. Autumn colour is a very striking yellow.

Other common names
American false elm
American hackberry
see morebeaver wood
hackberry
nettle tree
rim ash
sugarberry
sugarberry tree
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Size
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
Wider than 8 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Neutral, Alkaline, Acid
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Green
Summer Green Orange
Autumn Yellow Black
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing or North–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Cannabaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Spreading branched
Genus

A genus of 60-70 species of deciduous or evergreen shrubs to medium-sized trees with serrated green foliage and clusters of small, greenish-white flowers which appear in the spring

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

In cool climates such as the UK, needs a warm site with well-drained soil in a sunny position. In warmer climates, grow in deep fertile soil in partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by seed in autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Low Maintenance
Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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