Common Hackberry (also known as Sugarberry, Nettle Tree, or Beaverwood)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Rosales, Family: Cannabaceae, Genus: Celtis, Species: Celtis occidentalis · Cannabaceae (Hemp family, formerly classified in Ulmaceae/Elm family) · Simple, deciduous
Species
Celtis occidentalis
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Family
Cannabaceae (Hemp family, formerly classified in Ulmaceae/Elm family)
Shape
Ovate to deltoid-ovate with an asymmetrical (staggered) base
Size
Approximately 2.5 to 4 inches long; this specimen appears to be in the average size range for a mature leaf.
Margin
Serrate (toothed), usually from the middle to the tip, often entire near the asymmetrical base.
Arrangement
Alternate
Rarity
Very Common
Color & Pattern
Dull medium-to-dark green on the upper surface; lighter green beneath. No distinct variegation is present; minor yellowing may indicate early senescence or environmental stress.
Venation Pattern
Pinnate-palmate; specifically 'tri-veined' from the base where three main veins radiate upward from the petiole.
Texture & Surface
Scabrous (rough like sandpaper) on the upper surface due to minute hairs; the underside is typically smoother with hairs on the veins.
Description
A medium-sized deciduous tree reaching 30-50 feet tall with a rounded crown. It is most famous for its 'corky' or 'warty' bark that features prominent ridges. The fruit is a small, hard, purple-black drupe that persists into winter.
Key Features
Asymmetrical leaf base, three prominent veins starting at the base, rough sandpaper-like texture on the top of the leaf, and distinctive corky bark on the trunk.
Habitat
Thrives in rich bottomland soils and floodplains but is highly adaptable to rocky hillsides, limestone soils, and urban environments.
Geographic Range
Native to North America, ranging from southern Canada through the central and northeastern United States.
Condition Notes
The leaf shows slight mechanical damage/tearing at the apex and side. Coloration is a healthy deep green, though the texture appears matte as is characteristic for the species. Overall health grade: Good.
Interesting Facts
The Hackberry is a 'tough' tree often used in windbreaks. Its small berries are edible and have a thin, sweet skin, often described as tasting like dates or sugar. They were a significant food source for many Native American tribes.
Medicinal & Uses
The bark was historically used to treat sore throats and menstrual regulation. Today, it is primarily used for cheap furniture, crates, and as an ornamental urban shade tree due to its pollution tolerance.
Ecological Role
Vital wildlife tree; it serves as a host plant for the Hackberry Emperor and Question Mark butterflies. The fruit is a critical winter food source for cedar waxwings and robins.
Similar Species
Sugarberry (Celtis laevigata) which has narrower, smoother leaves; and American Elm (Ulmus americana) which lacks the tri-veined base and usually has doubly-serrate margins.
Foraging Tips
Look for trees with bark that looks like it has 'maps' or 'volcanoes' of cork stuck to it. Check for the small purple berries in late summer and autumn; they should be firm and sweet.
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic to humans, dogs, and cats. The fruit is safe to eat, though the pit is very hard.