Common Hackberry vs Kentucky Coffeetree - TreeTime.ca

Common Hackberry vs Kentucky Coffeetree

Gymnocladus dioicus

Celtis occidentalis

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Kentucky Coffeetree
Common Hackberry

The Kentucky Coffeetree has the largest leaves of any native tree in North America! In the summer, its large green canopy provides shade. While in the winter, its leathery bean pods act as a decorative element against the sky as they rattle in the wind. Beautiful year-round, this tree is an elegant addition to any landscape.

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.

Kentucky Coffeetree Quick Facts

Common Hackberry Quick Facts

Zone: 3a
Zone: 2b
Height: 21 m (70 ft)
Height: 25 m (82 ft)
Spread: 15 m (50 ft)
Spread: 7 m (24 ft)
Moisture: dry, normal
Moisture: any
Light: full sun
Light: full sun
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no
Berries: black, edible
Flavor: sweet
Harvest: late fall to winter
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: medium
Life span: long
Life span: long
Suckering: high
Suckering: high



Toxicity: Uncooked pods are toxic to humans

Other Names: coffeetree
Other Names: american hackberry, beaverwood, false elm, nettle tree, northern hackberry