Common Hackberry vs Balsam Poplar - TreeTime.ca

Common Hackberry vs Balsam Poplar

Populus balsamifera

Celtis occidentalis

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Balsam Poplar
Common Hackberry

Balsam Poplar is a hardy, fast-growing deciduous tree that is Native to Canada east of the Rockies.

We grow them in two variations. Sometimes they are a male clones, so they don't produce fluff. Other times, we grow them from seed, which will result in fluff. The detailed descriptions (see below) will tell you which is which.

The Common Hackberry is a medium-sized deciduous tree that resembles the American Elm but is immune to Dutch Elm Disease. They are versatile and can adapt to a variety of growing conditions.

It produces purple-red, berry-like fruit with a large seed in the center. Both the sweet flesh, which tastes similar to dates, and the crunchy seed are edible. The fruit remains on the tree throughout the winter, offering a valuable food source for birds and other wildlife.

The Common Hackberry can also be a great addition to a pollinator garden. The tree itself is a host for the larvae of several butterfly species and the flowers provide a source of pollen and nectar.

Balsam Poplar Quick Facts

Common Hackberry Quick Facts

Zone: 2a
Zone: 2b
Height: 25 m (82 ft)
Height: 25 m (82 ft)
Spread: 9 m (30 ft)
Spread: 7 m (24 ft)
Moisture: normal
Moisture: any
Light: full sun
Light: full sun
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Fuzz/fluff: see description
Catkins: yes
Catkins: no
Fall colour: golden yellow
Berries: black, edible
Flavor: sweet
Harvest: late fall to winter
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: medium
Life span: medium
Life span: long
Suckering: medium
Suckering: high

In row spacing: 2.4 - 3 m (8 - 10 ft)

Between row spacing: 5 m (16 ft)


Other Names: bam, bamtree, eastern balsam poplar, hackmatack, tacamahac
Other Names: american hackberry, beaverwood, false elm, nettle tree, northern hackberry