MinervaFlora May Update

This month’s tree, Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis) is a tree in the hemp family, known for their ability to thrive in a variety of soil conditions - wet to dry, rocky to clay. They are tolerant of urban pollution and grow in part shade to sun.

Growing 40-60 feet high, the mature tree has a straight central trunk and ‘warty’ bark with

corky ridges, arching branches and a spreading crown. Leaves are sharply toothed.

Flowers are insignificant and followed by red to purple drupes (fleshy fruit with a central stone and a thin skin) which are attractive to wildlife including Cedar Waxwings, Orioles, Robins and Mockingbirds. The flowers are a vital food source for bees and the tree is a larval host for many butterfly species such as the Hackberry Emperor, the Tawny Emperor and the American Snout.  Other insects such as beetles and moths visit looking for nectar or pollen.

Witches broom (dwarfed, dense, contorted twig clusters at the branch ends) and Hackberry nipple gall, which occurs on the leaves, are good identifiers, neither of which harm the tree.

Fun facts: in folklore, Hackberries are known was a symbol of wisdom because of their longevity and hardy nature.  Historically the wood was used for barrel hoops, furniture and pallets.

When planting, don’t forget…Plant’em high, they won’t die. Plant ‘em low, they won’t grow. And P.S. - KILL the MULCH VOLCANO