Common Name: Hackberry, Common Hackberry
Family: Cannabaceae
Plant Type: Deciduous Tree
Native Range: Central and eastern North America, including all of Nebraska
Hardiness Zones: 3–9
Height: 40–60 feet (occasionally taller)
Spread: 40–50 feet
Bloom Time: Spring (April–May in Nebraska)
Bloom Description: Inconspicuous greenish flowers, not ornamental
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Water Needs: Low to medium
Soil Preference: Well-drained to heavy clay soils; tolerates poor, alkaline, compacted soils
Maintenance Level: Low
Suggested Use: Shade tree, windbreak, street tree, wildlife habitat
Attracts: Birds, especially cedar waxwings and robins, pollinators on flowers
Tolerates: Drought, wind, heat, clay soils, air pollution
Notable Features: Very tough and adaptable, supports diverse wildlife, good for challenging sites
Nebraska Growing Notes:
Hackberry is a tough, long-lived native tree that thrives in Nebraska’s variable climate and soils, making it one of the most reliable shade and street trees in the state.
It tolerates drought, heat, wind, and poor soils, including heavy clay and compacted urban soils, making it ideal for both rural and urban plantings. Its broad canopy provides good shade, and its small, sweet fruits attract numerous bird species.
The bark develops distinctive corky ridges with age, adding winter interest. Hackberry is often planted where other trees struggle, such as windy plains, dry uplands, and city boulevards.
Landscape Use:
Excellent as a shade tree, windbreak component, street tree, or in wildlife-friendly plantings. Works well in parks, shelterbelts, and large residential yards. Pairs well with oaks, elms, and understory shrubs in habitat plantings.
Caution:
Non-toxic and wildlife-friendly. Prone to common but usually non-serious aesthetic issues like hackberry nipple gall and witches’ broom. May drop fruit on sidewalks, which can be messy.
Garden Locations:
Sources: