Ptelea trifoliata (Hop Tree)

Ptelea trifoliata (Hop Tree) is a dense, rounded, deciduous shrub or small tree with trifoliate, lustrous dark green leaves, each leaflet to 2-5 in. long (5-12 cm). Sprays of tiny, star-shaped, greenish-white flowers appear in late spring to early summer. Their sweet nectar attracts many species of butterflies. The blossoms are followed by hanging seed clusters, each encased in a thin, circular-winged samara, 1 in. across (2.5 cm). Seeds mature to chocolate-brown in late summer and persist through most of the winter. The foliage turns greenish-yellow in the fall. Leaves, flowers, and bark are all aromatic and exude an unpleasant citrus-oil aroma. Ptelea trifoliata is an attractive, tall shrub or small understory tree for both moist conditions and dry rocky sites. Suitable for the shrub border or as a lawn specimen.

The Hop Tree is particularly important for the caterpillars of the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail (Papilio glaucus) and Giant Swallowtail (Papilio cresphontes). These caterpillars feed on the leaves, making it a crucial part of their lifecycle.

• Grows up to 15-20 ft. tall and wide (450-600 cm).
• Performs best in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun, part shade or even full shade. Adaptable to a wide range of soil conditions. Drought and dry soil tolerant.
• Perfect as a specimen plant or in groupings, for beds and borders, cottage gardens or as an informal hedge or screen.
• Generally pest and disease free. Rarely browsed by deer.
• Propagate by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings.
• Native to the eastern and central United States.