Species › Plants › Common Hackberry

Common Hackberry

Celtis occidentalis

CommonPlant
Illustration of Common Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis)

Common Hackberry is a medium to large tree of eastern bottomlands and upland slopes, recognized by its warty, corky bark and small dark purple berries. It is one of the most important wildlife trees in the Midwest, supporting over 80 butterfly and moth species as larvae, and its berries attract more than 50 bird species. The berries persist through winter, providing critical food during cold months.

Habitat
Bottomlands, floodplains, and upland forests of eastern and central North America
Diet
Berries eaten by 50+ bird species; larval host for hackberry emperor butterfly
How common
Common

Best time to see a Common Hackberry

The best time to see a Common Hackberry is March–August, when about 65% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 24,769 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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