Ostrya virginiana (American Hop Hornbeam)

Long-lived (150 years), Ostrya virginiana (American Hop Hornbeam) is a slow-growing, small to medium-sized deciduous tree of pyramidal habit in youth, developing an oval to rounded crown over time. The foliage of birch-like, elliptical or ovate, finely serrated, medium green leaves, 5 in. long (12 cm), turns a lovely yellow in the fall. In spring, the flowers appear in separate male and female catkins which persist in winter. The female catkins are followed by dangling, pale green, hop-like papery fruits in summer. They are used by birds and small mammals. The attractive orange to reddish brown bark peels off in longitudinal strips, making American Hop Hornbeam adding further interest to the winter landscape. The wood and branches are very resistant to breakage from wind, ice, and snow. American Hop Hornbeam is a wonderful understory tree that is useful as a specimen or around decks and patios as a shade tree.

American Hop Hornbeam is a draw for various bird species, including the American Goldfinch, Evening Grosbeak, Northern Cardinal, Northern Mockingbird, Rose-Breasted Grosbeak, and Ruby-Throated Hummingbird. Its dense foliage and nutritious seeds provide essential food and shelter, making it a favored habitat for these avian visitors.

• Grows up to 20-40 ft. tall (6-12 m) and 20-30 ft. wide (6-9 m).
• A full sun or part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soils. Can tolerate dry gravelly soils in partial shade. Drought tolerant once established, it does not stand prolonged flooding. Ostrya virginiana is usually not very tolerant of high concentrations of salt.
• Perfect for shady landscapes and naturalized or woodland gardens.
• Low maintenance, this plant needs little pruning to develop a strong structure.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Deer resistant.
• Sow immediately after collection or pre-treat and sow in early spring.
• Native to eastern North America, Mexico, Canada.