Common Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis) is native to extensive regions of central and eastern North America. It is one of the toughest native shade trees you can plant, adapting to an incredible variety of soil types from heavy clay to sandy loam with wide pH ranges. Growing 30-40 feet tall at maturity in zone 3 with a rounded, symmetrical crown and distinctive corky, warty bark that becomes more striking with age. Hackberry have small dark purple berries (around 1 cm) ripen in September and can remain on the tree well into winter—delightfully sweet with thin, dates-like flesh that's rich in vitamins and enjoyed by both wildlife and people. Hackberry grows well in full sun or partial shade, reaching maturity relatively quickly and living 150-200 years under ideal conditions. It's immune to Dutch elm disease, making it an excellent elm substitute for landscapes. Our seedlings are propagated from seeds collected in the unique isolated population at Delta, Manitoba, located on the southern shore of Lake Winnipeg, ensuring genetic authenticity and superior adaptation to northern Prairie conditions. This rare native Canadian population represents some of the northernmost Hackberry genetics available. Hackberry grows upright and has excellent canopy clearance for understory plantings in food forests and permaculture designs. Perfect for shelterbelts, urban street plantings, wildlife habitat, and anywhere you need a tough, productive shade tree that delivers both ecological value and edible fruit without demanding perfect conditions. Hardiness Zone: 3 Height: 12 m (40 ft) Spread: 6 m (20 ft) Soil Preference: Well drained, suitable for various soils Light Exposure: Full sun Latin Name: Celtis occidentalis
