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Celtis occidentalis

common hackberry

A large, spreading, deciduous tree to a height of 20m with dark green lance-shaped leaves. Greenish flowers in spring are followed by small sweet, edible fruits that mature from orange-red to dark purple. Autumn colour is a very striking yellow.

Other common names
American false elm
American hackberry
see morebeaver wood
hackberry
nettle tree
rim ash
sugarberry
sugarberry tree
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Size
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
Wider than 8 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Neutral, Alkaline, Acid
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Green
Summer Green Orange
Autumn Yellow Black
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing or North–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Cannabaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Spreading branched
Genus

A genus of 60-70 species of deciduous or evergreen shrubs to medium-sized trees with serrated green foliage and clusters of small, greenish-white flowers which appear in the spring

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

In cool climates such as the UK, needs a warm site with well-drained soil in a sunny position. In warmer climates, grow in deep fertile soil in partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by seed in autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Low Maintenance
Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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