Southern Hackberry Tree Seeds

Southern Hackberry is a fast-growing native shade tree prized for its adaptability, graceful form, and ability to thrive in a wide variety of growing conditions. Native to the southern United States, this attractive deciduous tree develops a broad, rounded canopy that provides excellent shade while producing small berry-like fruits that attract songbirds and other wildlife. Southern Hackberry tolerates heat, drought, flooding, urban pollution, and a range of soil types, making it an outstanding choice for parks, wildlife plantings, naturalized landscapes, windbreaks, and residential properties.

Botanical Information

• Botanical Name: Celtis laevigata
• Common Name: Southern Hackberry, Sugarberry
• Family: Cannabaceae
• Plant Type: Deciduous Tree
• Life Cycle: Perennial
• Native Range: Southeastern and South-Central United States
• Mature Height: 60–100 feet
• Mature Spread: 40–70 feet
• Growth Rate: Fast
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6–9
• Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade
• Soil Preference: Moist, well-drained soils; adaptable to clay, loam, sandy, and limestone soils
• Soil pH: 6.0–8.0
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Drought Tolerance: High once established
• Salt Tolerance: Moderate
• Deer Resistance: Moderate
• Wildlife Value: Excellent; fruits provide food for birds, squirrels, and other wildlife while serving as a host plant for several butterfly species
• Container Friendly: No
• Landscape Uses: Shade tree, wildlife habitat, restoration projects, parks, windbreaks, streetscapes, and large landscapes
• Germination Rate: 70–90%
• Seed Pre-Treatment: Requires 60–90 days of cold moist stratification

Growing Information

After completing the recommended cold moist stratification period, sow seeds approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep in a well-drained seed starting mix. Keep the growing medium evenly moist but not saturated while maintaining warm temperatures for germination. Seedlings benefit from bright light and consistent moisture during establishment. Once established, Southern Hackberry grows rapidly and is highly tolerant of heat, drought, occasional flooding, and challenging urban environments.

Seed Quantities Available

• 1 oz. - Approximately 640 Seeds
• 1/4 lb. - Approximately 2,500 Seeds
• 1 lb. - Approximately 10,240 Seeds

Why Grow Southern Hackberry?

• Fast-growing native shade tree
• Excellent wildlife and pollinator value
• Produces berries enjoyed by birds and small mammals
• Tolerates drought, heat, flooding, and urban conditions
• Adaptable to many soil types
• Long-lived and easy to maintain
• Ideal for restoration, parks, and large landscapes