Hackberry (Common Hackberry)
Celtis occidentalis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 880 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Non-durable to Perishable; very susceptible to decay and insect attack (powder post beetles) if used outdoors.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture; features a distinct cathedral pattern when flat-sawn and can exhibit spalted figure if left to decay slightly.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is light yellowish gray to light brown; sapwood is wide and pale yellow to white. It has a relatively low luster and is prone to bluish-gray staining from fungi.
Hardness (Janka)
880 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Perishable; very susceptible to decay and insect attack (powder post beetles) if used outdoors.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $2.50 to $4.50 per board foot (generally considered a lower-value utility hardwood).
- Wood Age Estimate
- The standing tree shown appears to be 15-25 years old based on the diameter and development of characteristic warty bark ridges.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and not listed in CITES appendices.
Common Uses
Utility lumber, crates, boxes, cheap furniture, cabinetry, firewood, and tool handles (when strength is less priority than ash).
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Fairly easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause some tearout. Glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Polyurethane or lacquer are recommended to prevent moisture absorption due to its susceptibility to rot.
Notable Features
Most distinctive feature is the unique warty, cork-like ridges on the bark. It has no characteristic odor and contains small amounts of silica which can dull tools slightly over time.
