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Common Hackberry vs Western Larch
Celtis occidentalis
Larix occidentalis
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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.
Western Larch is a pioneer species that can survive in nutrient poor soil and is found in the valleys and on the lower slopes of mountains in mixed forests. In the warm months, this larch is covered in clusters of soft green needles that turn golden yellow before dropping in the fall. Its dense, sturdy wood is excellent for lumber, making this Larch valuable in Western North America.