Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis) is a native North American deciduous tree that grows 40 to 60 feet tall, occasionally reaching 100 feet, with a rounded spreading crown and upright-arching branches. Hardy from zones 2 through 9, this medium to large tree thrives in full sun to partial shade and tolerates everything from wet soils to drought, making it one of the most adaptable shade trees for difficult growing conditions. Its edible fruit attracts birds and butterflies, while its low maintenance needs and proven tolerance for urban pollution, clay soil, and wind make it a reliable choice for street plantings, rain gardens, and shade in challenging landscapes.
Partial Sun
Moderate
2-9
720in H x 720in W
—
Low
Hover over chart points for details
Native to the eastern and midwestern United States, hackberry grows statewide in Missouri from low woods along streams to drier upland slopes, revealing its genuine toughness across vastly different conditions. The tree produces insignificant flowers in April to May, followed by edible fruit that feeds wildlife throughout the year. Its ability to handle urban pollutants, compacted soils, wind exposure, and both waterlogged and drought-prone sites without complaint sets it apart as a dependable shade tree for properties where other trees struggle.
Hackberry serves as an excellent shade tree for residential and urban landscapes, particularly where growing conditions challenge other species. It functions well in rain gardens to manage stormwater, as a street tree tolerant of roadside conditions, and wherever deep, cooling shade is needed without the fussiness of more demanding trees. The edible fruit provides natural food for birds and butterflies, supporting wildlife while requiring no harvest or management from the gardener.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
No care instructions available yet for this variety.
Enter your ZIP code to see a personalized growing calendar for this plant.
“Hackberry is widely distributed throughout the eastern and midwestern United States, where it has grown naturally for centuries in diverse habitats from stream bottoms to upland slopes. This native tree occurs statewide in Missouri and across much of the eastern half of the continent, establishing itself as a cornerstone species in American forests long before European settlement. Its abundance and hardiness made it a logical choice for early settlers and modern landscapers seeking reliable shade in variable conditions.”