The Dawes Arboretum

Common name: Windy City common hackberry

Family: Celtidaceae (hackberry family)

Distribution: Species native to c. and e. North America

Hardiness: USDA Zone 2

Life form: Deciduous tree

Comments: A large, deciduous tree growing 40-60' tall and wide. This cultivar was selected for its attractive summer foliage and good branching structure. Tiny, greenish yellow flowers in April to early May result in an edible purple-black berry, ¼" wide. Leaves are alternate, 4-6" long, rough to the touch and margins are coarsely toothed. Fall color has been reliably golden yellow and superior to the species. Somewhat slow to establish, but a good substitute for the American elm in boulevard plantings.