Common Hackberry

The common hackberry has a plethora of nicknames, including "nettle tree," "sugarberry," and "beaverwood." It is a tall native tree related to the elm, and it produces berries that are eaten by many birds. It is a tough and versatile tree that can withstand severe storms, inundation, hard pruning, and thrives in almost any condition of light and moisture. The hackberry was planted early in the Park's creation and a few trees that may date from this time can still be found in the Ramble, along with their descendants.

  • Leaves

    3-5 inches long, alternate arrangement, oblique leaf base, saw-like edges at leaf tip

  • Fruit

    Orange-red fleshy drupe, ripe September-October, edible

  • Flower

    No ornamental value; bloom late April to early May

  • Bark

    Grayish, corky and unattractive, stems have zigzag appearance, prominent raised pores for gas exchange on stems

Where to find the Common Hackberry

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