Hackberry

tree branch with textured, pointed leaves and small brown berries
Hackberry branch

Nyla Martin
used with permission

 
Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis)

Hackberry gets its name from the Scottish word “Hagberry”, which means “bird cherry.” It produces dark purple berry-like fruit that serves as an excellent food source for birds and wildlife. Hackberry is a monoecious plant, which means it has both male and female flowers on the same plant. Small, greenish flowers bloom in April to May, and then the female flowers produce the fruit later in the summer and early fall. This native plant is also a host plant for butterfly and moth larvae.

Last updated: February 19, 2025

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

210 New York Avenue
Staten Island, NY 10305

Phone:

718 354-4606

Contact Us