The sugarberry grows on stream banks, river bottoms, and moist alluvial flats of clay and silt loam. It may occur in pure stands, but usually occurs as an occasional tree in association with many other hardwood species - primarily sweetgum, pecan, green ash, elms, overcup oak, water oak, and honeylocust. 

It is found in the southeastern United States from southeastern Virginia to southern Florida (including the Florida Keys) and west to southwestern Texas. This species is also found in the northeastern areas of Mexico. It is found at elevations up to 2,000 feet.