Sugarberry - Celtis laevigata (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Sugarberry

Also known as: Netleaf hackberry, Southern hackberry

Celtis laevigata, commonly known as sugarberry, is a deciduous medium-sized tree native to North America. It is often found near water - on floodplains, along rivers and streams. There are many species of birds, small mammals, and insects that use sugarberry's fruits and leaves as a source of food, which makes it a very important part of the ecosystem.

Scientific classification

Species

Sugarberry (Celtis laevigata)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Spring

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

18 m to 24 m

Plant Height

15 m to 18 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Red, Purple, Orange, Burgundy, Lavender

Fruit Color

White, Green, Yellow

Flower Color

Green, Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

Images of Sugarberry

Attributes of Sugarberry

Growth Rate

With a moderate rate, sugarberry actively develops during Spring and Summer. This tempo provides a balanced surge in height and leaf production. Approaching warmer seasons, gradual unfolding of its signature branching pattern and increased trunk thickness can be witnessed, reflecting its moderate growth rhythm.

Distribution of Sugarberry

Distribution Map

Sugarberry is native to the southern and eastern parts of the United States, south into Mexico, and in Bermuda. It has also been introduced into Iraq and Tajikistan. It thrives in moist ecosystems along streams and in floodplains in warmer and more humid climates and is used in the United States to make hackberry lumber.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Streams, flood plains, rocky slopes

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

The sugarberry tree contains a lot of sweet nectar and delicious sweet fruits, making it perfect as a specimen or shade tree in butterfly or wildlife gardens. It also provides ornamental value to the garden, even during winter, due to its textured bark and red berries. This tree can thrive even in sandy soils and is resistant to deer.

Symbolism

Deductive ability, optimism, impulsiveness, nobility, resilience, pride, the dedication needed to achieve one's goals

Interesting Facts

Sugarberry is somewhat hated in Texas within the United States, and often referred to as a 'trash tree.' Some Texas hate sugarberry because its wood is considered brittle and weak. In addition, people think less of this tree because it is susceptible to parasites and unattractive deformities. Two common deformities called Nipple Leaf Gall and Witches Broom. Despite this, many companies still use sugarberry to make furniture, and it is common throughout Texas.

Name Story

Sugarberry: According to statistics, about 70 types of celtis plants are called sugarberry. However, if someone is selling sugarberry, it must be referring to Celtis laevigata because its sweet berries are loved by at least a dozen types of birds or animals.

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Quickly Identify Sugarberry

Distinctive warty bark texture lasting into winter months.

Ovate to oblong-lanceolate leaves, 2-4 inches long, glossy to dull green.

Small greenish flowers in April and May, up to 0.2 inches across.

Deep purple drupe fruit, 0.25-0.5 inches in diameter, sweet flesh.

Slender twigs with smooth texture, small lenticels, and alternate branching.

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Care Guide for Sugarberry

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Sugarberry thrives in warm North American regions, requiring well-draining soil and moderate drought tolerance. Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to dry slightly. Best suited for outdoor growth, it benefits from rainwater, mimicking its natural habitat's precipitation patterns.

Fertilize: Sugarberry thrives with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) in spring and a high-nitrogen option for leaf growth. Fertilize twice a year, using 1-2 cups per inch of trunk diameter, ensuring proper watering afterward. Reduce frequency as sugarberry matures to prevent over-fertilization.

Pruning: Sugarberry thrives with early spring pruning, focusing on dead or damaged branches and crossing limbs to enhance growth, air circulation, and light access. Minimal pruning is recommended to retain natural shape, preventing disease and promoting vigorous regrowth for longevity and visual appeal.

Propagation: Sugarberry propagates easily in autumn and winter through methods like hardwood cuttings, layering, and seed sowing. Success entails healthy root and shoot growth, requiring proper moisture levels and consistent care for effective propagation.

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Images of Sugarberry

Attributes of Sugarberry

Distribution of Sugarberry

Culture

Quickly Identify Sugarberry

Care Guide for Sugarberry

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Common Pests & Diseases