Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis)
Family : Cannabaceae
Zone: 2 - 9
Zone: 2 - 9
Native North American tree with a large spreading crown, commonly planted as a boulevard tree alternative to elm or ash. Can reach a height of 40 - 60 ft at maturity. Bark is an obvious feature with many ridges and a warty appearance. A monoecious species (with both male and female flowers on the same tree). Produces small round purple fruit in abundance that is favored by birds and wildlife. Leaves are rough to touch with toothed edges and unequal bases. Leaves are susceptible to gall forming insects that lay eggs in the leaf tissue, producing nipple shaped deformities on the leaves. These are harmless to the tree and are useful in identification.