Hackberries

/ˈhækbɛriz/ noun

Definition

Plural of hackberry; the small, dark purple fruits produced by hackberry trees, which are edible and historically consumed by humans and wildlife.

Etymology

From hack (possibly from an earlier English or Norse word) combined with berry; hackberry trees (Celtis species) produce these small drupe fruits native to North America.

Kelly Says

Native Americans ate hackberries for thousands of years—they're nutritious and sweet, and they provide crucial food for birds and wildlife in fall when other food sources are scarce, making hackberry trees ecological superstars.

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