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Texas Sugarberry | Celtis laevigata

Scientific Name

Celtis laevigata

Common Name

Texas Sugarberry

Photo of Celtis laevigata.
Tree Description

Celtis laevigata, Texas sugarberry, is a large deciduous tree with a high, spreading canopy. It grows quickly, and produces edible fruit that attracts wildlife. It is highly drought tolerant and heat tolerant.

Tree Size
Large
Height at Maturity
50ft-70ft
Width at Maturity
40ft–50ft
Growth Rate
24 inches/year
Foliage Type
Deciduous
Sun Exposure
Sun
Part-Shade
Water Needs
Low Water
Medium Water
Potential Issues

May be susceptible to beetle leaves and scales, mistletoe, armillaria and root damage potential.

Field Trial Monitoring Results
Good potential utility as an urban tree based on evaluation of 16 trees, healthy crown, 100% survival, very fast growth rate. Signs of herbivory found on majority of species. Trees have high vigor in the landscape and have required extensive structural pruning.
Propagation Results

We got very high germination with 120 day cold stratification in moist peat in plastic bag in refrigerator then greenhouse sown in spring. Seedlings are fast growing. Field trials will monitor for weediness potential.

Additional Images
Photo of Celtis laevigata.

Photo: J. Reimer, courtesy of SelecTree