Akène Seeds - Common Hackberry

To successfully sow your seeds,
see growing notes at the bottom of the page!

The hackberry (Celtis occidentalis) is a robust native tree, typically reaching up to 15 meters in height, with a distinctly rough and warty gray bark. Its foliage consists of alternate, toothed, dark green leaves that turn yellow in the fall. In late spring, it produces small, discreet greenish flowers, followed by orange to dark purple berries in autumn. This tree adapts well to a variety of soils, including poor soils and urban areas, making it a versatile choice for parks, naturalistic gardens, and reforestation projects.

Medicinal and Culinary Uses
Hackberry fruits are edible and slightly sweet. In herbal medicine, hackberry bark is sometimes used for its astringent properties and applied as a decoction to soothe sore throats and mild inflammations.

Ecological Roles
The hackberry plays an important ecological role by providing a food source for many birds and small mammals, especially with its autumn berries. Caterpillars of several butterflies and moths, including those of the red admiral butterfly (Limenitis archippus), feed on its leaves, thus contributing to biodiversity. Due to its ability to withstand urban conditions and stabilize soils, the hackberry is a valuable asset for riparian ecosystems and urban environments.

Hackberry seeds require cold stratification to ensure germination. See growing notes below for more details.

Akène cannot assume any responsibility regarding the use of plants for therapeutic purposes. Always consult a professional before using a medicinal or edible plant.