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| Leaf Photo by: Vern Wilkins |
Bark Photo by: Steven J. Baskauf |
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| Fruit Photo by: Melissa Spearing |
Tree Photo by: Natural Resources Canada, Canadian Forest Service |
The sugar-rich fruit supports many species of birds, and the leaves are food for many kinds of caterpillars.
Northern hackberry is found in scattered locations across southern Ontario, from Windsor to the Ottawa Valley.
Northern hackberry is the largest native hackberry, with distinctive warty-ridged bark as it matures. Leaves are 6-9 cm long, with an asymmetrical base and long pointed tip, turning yellow in fall. Single, reddish-purple fruits hang below the leaves and may persist into winter.
It grows commonly in moist bottomlands near rivers and lakes but has proven to be a very adaptable species for dry, windy sites and urban areas. It is a suitable replacement for American elm.
Size: Up to 15 m tall
Moisture: Wet to dry
Shade: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Adaptable to all types and wide pH range
Planting Tip: In a forest, northern hackberry will form a tall, high canopy, but when planted in the open, will grow as wide as tall, so give it ample space. More tips...
