American hophornbeam (Ostrya virginiana)

American hophornbeam

Also known as: Ironwood, Leverwood

The american hophornbeam has multiple uses and functions. As a plant, it provides important food sources to birds, particularly the ruffled grouse, through its buds and catkins. The lumber of the american hophornbeam is used to make tool handles and fence posts. The quality, porousness, and hardness of the wood also make it a common choice for making longbows.

Scientific classification

Species

American hophornbeam (Ostrya virginiana)

Beeches, walnuts, and allied trees

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall, Winter

Harvest Time

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green, Brown, White

Flower Color

Red, Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of American hophornbeam

Attributes of American hophornbeam

Growth Rate

Growing at a slow pace, american hophornbeam exhibits a gradual development during Spring and Summer, with noticeable increases in its stature and foliar display. This slow progression, likely contributing to its renowned sturdiness, gives ample time for american hophornbeam to solidify its structural strength, ensuring it endures varying environmental conditions. The slow growth rate also governs its infrequent yet consistent flowering, bestowing a distinctive charm on american hophornbeam during its growing seasons.

Distribution of American hophornbeam

Distribution Map

American hophornbeam's native range spans the majority of the region from Central Canada to Mexico. It hasn't seen any further distribution. You'll find american hophornbeam growing naturally in damp woodland or on shady ridges and slopes in gravel soil.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Rich moist woods, dry gravelly slopes and ridges

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

American hophornbeam is a rather uncommon understory ornamental or street tree. Its rounded shape and attractive fall foliage make it useful as a shade or specimen tree. American hophornbeam also works well as a screen and in woodland gardens. American holly, sugar maple, and flowering dogwood are great companion plants.

Symbolism

Strength, Endurance and Stamina, Small but Mighty

Name Story

American hophornbeam: It is featured with drooping clusters of sac-like, seed-bearing pods which and as the common name suggests, somewhat resemble the fruit of hops. It is a species of Ostrya native to eastern North America, so it is called American hophornbeam.

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Quickly Identify American hophornbeam

Distinctive hop-like fruits that hang in drooping clusters, enclosing ribbed nutlets.

Alternate, birch-like leaves with a doubly toothed margin and fuzzy stems.

Monoecious catkins appearing in clusters of three, male catkins red-brown and drooping.

Light gray to reddish-brown stem bark with a shredding texture, slender drooping branches.

Rough, scaly mature bark with loose scaly plates that peel away, developing a rugged texture.

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Care Guide for American hophornbeam

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: American hophornbeam thrives in temperate regions with moderate moisture and well-drained soils. It shows moderate drought tolerance once established, requiring watering every 1-2 weeks. Careful attention to watering during the growing season is essential for optimal leaf development and overall health.

Fertilize: Fertilize american hophornbeam biannually in spring and fall with balanced nutrients, increasing nitrogen early on. Young american hophornbeam require more frequent feeding, while mature american hophornbeam need lighter doses. Always water after fertilizing and adjust for seasonal growth to promote healthy development without negative impacts.

Pruning: American hophornbeam thrives with light pruning in early spring to enhance shape and health. Remove dead or diseased branches and thin crowds for better air circulation, promoting a strong structure while minimizing disease risk. Heavy pruning should be avoided to prevent stress on the tree.

Propagation: American hophornbeam propagation involves hardwood cuttings, air layering, and sowing seeds in autumn to winter. It has a moderate difficulty level. Success indicators include new root and shoot growth, and using rooted shoots is essential for hardwood cuttings.

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Images of American hophornbeam

Attributes of American hophornbeam

Distribution of American hophornbeam

Culture

Quickly Identify American hophornbeam

Care Guide for American hophornbeam

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