Trees of Kankakee

Hackberry Trees

Did you know there’s a tree that shows up as a landmark when you try to identify it with your smart phone? This tree’s bark resembles something you would see in an aerial shot of Iceland or in a photo of deep sea caverns. The first time you spot this tree, it makes an impression (literally - if you hug it you’ll find grooves in your cheek). This stunner is the hackberry tree and you can find them all over Kankakee county. I encountered my first while walking at Gar Creek.

Hackberry, scientifically referred to as Celtis occidentalis, is a large deciduous tree native to North America. While the bark of this tree may be what you notice first, it also has flowers in the spring, berries in the summer, and a brilliant bright green canopy that turns to yellow in the fall. Its beauty isn’t the only thing it brings to the table, the berries serve as a favorite snack for many local birds and mammals, and the tree itself serves as a butterfly larval host, with one species aptly named the hackberry emperor.

This tree is super groovy (pun intended) and is an essential staple here in Kankakee county. If you see one while you’re out on your next walk, make sure to give it a hug and a thank you for all of its contributions!