This deciduous tree has a smooth greyish trunk with spreading pendulous branches that form a domed crown. It has dark green ovate-oblong leaves and the male and female flowers appear with the new growth in spring followed by reddish berries.

Hardiness zones 5  to 9

Celtis laevigata is naturally found in North America from southern Indiana, Illinois to Texas and Florida grown along the stream banks and on the associated flood plains or on rocky slopes from sea level to an altitude of 300 m (984 ft). 

It prefers a protected to open sunny to semi-shaded cooler position and grows in deep well drained organic rich moist to dry sandy to clay soil that is acidic tending neutral with a pH range from 6.1 to 7.5. It is drought and frost tolerant but dislikes shaded positions.

Sugarberry is grown for its spreading crown and attractive foliage. It is planted parks and gardens as a lawn specimen for shade or use along water courses for bank binding. It is also planted in woodland gardens or used as a street tree, tolerating pollution. It is suitable for inland and low-mountain regions and establishes in 3-5 years and is long lived up to 150 years. The weak soft timber is closely grained and is used in the manufacture of cheap furniture or fencing and as fuel-wood. ID 3809

Celtis (SEL-tis) laevigata (lee-vih-GAY-tuh)

Ulmaceae (ulm-AY-see-ee)
Elm Family