Small’s Hackberry: A Lesser-Known Native Tree for Southeastern Gardens
If you’re looking to add native trees to your southeastern landscape, you might want to consider Small’s hackberry (Celtis laevigata var. smallii). This native variety of the sugarberry family offers gardeners a chance to support local ecosystems while adding a charming, understated tree to their property.
What is Small’s Hackberry?
Small’s hackberry is a perennial, deciduous tree native to the lower 48 states, specifically thriving across the southeastern region. Also known scientifically as Celtis smallii Beadle, this tree typically grows as a single-trunked specimen that can reach heights greater than 13-16 feet, though environmental conditions may sometimes result in a shorter, multi-stemmed growth form.
Where Does It Grow Naturally?
This native beauty calls the southeastern United States home, naturally occurring across seven states:
- Alabama
- Georgia
- Kentucky
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Virginia
Why Choose Small’s Hackberry for Your Garden?
As a native species, Small’s hackberry offers several advantages for southeastern gardeners. Native plants are naturally adapted to local climate conditions and soil types, making them generally easier to establish and maintain once they’re settled in. They also provide important habitat and food sources for local wildlife, supporting the natural ecosystem in your backyard.
However, it’s worth noting that specific information about this particular variety can be challenging to find. Much of what we know about hackberries comes from studies of the broader species group, so you might want to do additional research or consult with local native plant societies before making your final decision.
Growing Conditions and Care
While specific growing requirements for Small’s hackberry are not extensively documented, as a southeastern native, it’s likely adapted to the region’s typical conditions. Based on its natural range, this tree probably thrives in USDA hardiness zones 6 through 9.
As with most native trees, Small’s hackberry will likely perform best when planted in conditions similar to its natural habitat. Consider placing it in naturalized areas of your landscape or incorporating it into native woodland garden designs.
Landscape Role and Design Uses
Small’s hackberry works well as a specimen tree in naturalistic landscapes or as part of native plant communities. Its relatively modest size compared to larger shade trees makes it suitable for smaller properties or as an understory tree in larger landscapes.
This tree would be particularly appropriate for:
- Native plant gardens
- Naturalized woodland areas
- Wildlife habitat gardens
- Low-maintenance landscape designs
The Bottom Line
Small’s hackberry represents an opportunity to grow a truly native tree that’s specifically adapted to southeastern conditions. While detailed care information can be harder to come by for this particular variety, its native status suggests it should be relatively low-maintenance once established.
If you’re committed to native gardening and want to support local ecosystems, Small’s hackberry could be a worthwhile addition to your landscape. Just be prepared to do a bit of detective work to learn more about its specific needs, and consider reaching out to local extension offices or native plant groups for region-specific growing advice.
