Northern Hackberry
Celtis occidentalis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
300"–600" H × 300"–600" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, CO, CT and 34 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Northern hackberry is a large native shade tree that grows 25-50 feet tall with an equal spread. It has a rounded crown and produces small inconspicuous flowers in spring followed by small purple berries in fall. The tree is very adaptable to different soil conditions and urban environments.
In an HOA neighborhood
Northern Hackberry is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, street edge, mid zone.
- Large mature size requires adequate space
- May produce some berry drop in fall
Wildlife value
Host plant for hackberry butterfly, question mark butterfly.
This tree supports over 40 butterfly and moth species as a host plant, including hackberry emperor and mourning cloak butterflies. The berries provide food for many bird species throughout fall and winter.
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.
Does Northern Hackberry fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.