What The Heck Is Hackberry?

Why the hackberry is not a more well known tree is a mystery to many. Well known by tree experts to be “one tough tree” hackberry trees produce a quality hardwood found on a wide range of soils east of the Rockies from southern Canada to Florida. They thrive in a broad span of temperatures and sites that vary from 14 to 60" of annual rainfall. With a growth pattern that resembles the elm –without the susceptibility to disease; they can even stand up to strong winds and tolerate air pollution. The bark and berries are striking, and they make excellent shade and street specimens.

All of this hardiness adds up to a good landscape choice, especially for those seeking energy-conserving shade tree that doesn’t require watering. The fruit of the hackberry is popular with winter birds, and also attracts many butterfly species.

In earlier years, its tough, flexible wood was used for barrel hoops, and many a pioneer cabin was equipped with durable hackberry wood flooring. The tree was first cultivated in 1636. Other common names given to the hackberry include common hackberry, sugarberry, nettletree, beaverwood, northern hackberry and American hackberry.

Bob enjoyed seeing the coffee colored grains that come to life through the finishing process. Special properties include some desirable spalting and subtle earthy green undertone when compared to the warmer tones found in other lighter toned woods like Pecan or Maple.

Interesting Hackberry Bark.

Striking Hackberry fruit is popular with winter birds and attracts many butterfly species.

#1019 Hackberry Yarn Project Bowl