Sugarberry
Celtis laevigata
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Pl. C97F — Celtis laevigata
Celtis laevigataCeltis laevigataCeltis laevigataCeltis laevigataCeltis laevigataCeltis laevigataCeltis laevigataCeltis laevigataCeltis laevigataCeltis laevigataCeltis laevigataCeltis laevigataCeltis laevigataCeltis laevigata
IOverview
Overview
Sugarberry (Celtis laevigata) is a deciduous tree native to the southeastern United States and northeastern Mexico, thriving in habitats ranging from Alabama to Virginia and westward into Texas. Known for its edible fruit, which can be used fresh or dried, this plant also has ornamental value with its attractive foliage and bark. Sugarberry prefers full sun to partial shade and grows well in various soil types, including sandy, medium, and clay soils, with a pH range of 4.4 to 7.7. It is hardy in zones 5-10 and can reach heights of up to 18 meters, making it an interesting addition to landscapes where its light requirements and moisture preferences are met.
Quick answers
What is Sugarberry?
Sugarberry (Celtis laevigata) is a deciduous tree native to the southeastern United States and northeastern Mexico, thriving in habitats ranging from Alabama to Virginia and westward into Texas.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Sugarberry thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions. It prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH range of 4.4 to 7.7. Hardy in zones 5-10, this tree or shrub grows up to 18 meters tall. For propagation, use seeds or cuttings. The fruit is edible and can be harvested for consumption.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-10
Habit
Tree, Shrub
Mature size
18.0 m tall
Soil pH
4.4–7.7
For first-time growers
How to grow Sugarberry for the first time
8steps
Start with planting a Sugarberry tree in your garden for a simple and rewarding beginner project.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Sugarberry sapling, well-draining soil, and a watering can or hose.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the ground is moist but not waterlogged.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is loose and well-draining. For containers, use a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay soil.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling to a prepared hole that's twice as wide but not deeper than its root ball.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and regular watering until established. Prune lightly in late winter or early spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the tree annually to maintain shape and remove dead branches. Fruit can be harvested when ripe, but this is not a common practice for Sugarberry.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without amending, and neglecting regular pruning are common issues beginners should avoid.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The sugarberry's fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. Typically, the fruit is consumed fresh but may also be dried for later use. SKIP
Other uses:Fire starterLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
24 native · 2 introduced
Distribution
24 native · 2 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 24 native· 2 introduced
Asia2 regions
native (1)Georgia
introduced (1)Iraq
Broader regions
native:South Carolina, Arkansas, Bermuda, Florida, Illinois, West Virginia, Alabama, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, Mexico Southwest, Mississippi, Missouri, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia
introduced:Tadzhikistan
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · c97fb255-253f-4315-977d-44eeedeff0e2
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