Ostrya virginiana
American Hophornbeam (Ironwood)
This small to medium-sized native tree has a graceful habit, dark green birch-like foliage, and attractive yellow fall color. Showy, shaggy bark and persistent winter catkins provide multi-season interest, while distinctive hop-like seed clusters add unique texture. A great choice for naturalized landscapes, hedges, or specimen plantings, it also supports pollinators, songbirds, and other wildlife.
- Native, deciduous tree
- Shaggy bark
- Tolerates some shade
- Category: Tree, Native
- Hardiness Zone: 4-9
- Height: 20-40 ft
- Spread: 15-30 ft
- Foliage Color: Dark Green
Landscape Characteristics
| • | Flowers |
Specialty Use
| • | Woodland Garden |
Critter Resistance
| • | Deer Resistant |
Foliage
| • | Deciduous |
Growth Rate
| • | Moderate |
Foliage Color
| • | Green |
Growing & Maintenance Tips for Ostrya virginiana
Grows best in cool, well-drained, slightly acidic soil in sun or part shade. Can be found in the wild on drier slopes as an understory although some larger specimens are found in deep, well-drained soils in mixed stands of bottomland hardwood.