On our farm, we have many hackberry trees (Celtis occidentalis). They are a member of the elm tree family, but seem resistant to the diseases that often trouble elm trees. Furthermore, they are drought tolerant and not bothered by the high winds that we tend to get. In the fall, the small fruits turn to a deep purple color and they are popular with winter birds, especially the cedar waxwing, mockingbird and robin. The tree also attracts many butterfly species including American snout, hackberry, mourning cloak, and tawny emperor. These small fruits are also popular with me. I love to snack on them while doing chores. But be careful not to bite on them too vigorously – you might chip a tooth. Behind their peel is a wonderfully fruity tasting tiny layer of fruit flesh before your teeth hit the very hard seed. But what an explosion of taste you experience!
