Dwarf Hackberry
Celtis tenuifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
120"–360" H × 120"–360" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 20 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Dwarf hackberry is a small to medium-sized native tree with a rounded crown and fine-textured foliage. It produces small, inconspicuous flowers in spring followed by small berries that wildlife enjoy. This drought-tolerant tree works well as a shade tree in residential landscapes.
In an HOA neighborhood
Dwarf Hackberry is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
Host plant for Question Mark butterfly, Mourning Cloak butterfly.
The spring blooms attract bees and beetles for pollination. The berries provide food for birds, and the tree serves as a host plant for butterfly larvae.
Common questions
- How much sun does Dwarf Hackberry need?
- Dwarf Hackberry grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Dwarf Hackberry bloom?
- Dwarf Hackberry blooms in April and May.
- Where is Dwarf Hackberry native?
- Dwarf Hackberry (Celtis tenuifolia) is native to AL, AR, DE, FL and 20 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What butterflies or moths does Dwarf Hackberry host?
- Dwarf Hackberry is a larval host plant for Question Mark butterfly and Mourning Cloak butterfly.
- Is Dwarf Hackberry HOA-friendly?
- Dwarf Hackberry is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Dwarf Hackberry? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz