Go Back Ironwood

Posted: March 23, 2021 at 7:48 PM
Ostrya virginiana

Plant Type: Deciduous Trees

This slow-growing, hardy, medium-sized tree has slender, spreading branches. Hop-like fruits add interest in late summer and the persistent brown leaves add winter interest. Good for street or lawn, it is tolerant of dry locations. 2008 GreatPlants® for the Great Plains winner.

Height: 30-50′. Spread: 25′. Shape: Oval to rounded. Exposure: Full Sun. Foliage: Bright green. Fall Foliage: Golden yellow. Zone: 3-9.

Also referred to as American Hop-hornbeam, Eastern Hop Hornbeam, Hop Hornbeam, Ironwood, Leverwood, and Wooly Hop hornbeam.

Currently not available for online purchase.

Growing & Maintenance Tips:

Flower Color

—

Foliage Color

Bright green summer. Golden yellow in fall.

Plant Spread

25'

Good Companions

—

Plant Height

30-50'

Scape Height

—

Hardness Zone

3-9

Soil Moisture

—

Characteristics & Attributes

Attributes

The leaves of Ostrya virginiana are simple, alternate and doubly-toothed. The fruit looks somewhat like the fruit of Hops (Humulus lupulus), hence the common name "hop-hornbeam". The name Ironwood refers to the great strength of the wood which was highly prized for tool handles etc. It is smaller than many other trees and usually does not reach the canopy. The bark of mature Ostrya trees tends to split into narrow vertical strips and becomes somewhat flaky and the appearance is very distinctive. It is common for the trees to hold some of the dead leaves on the branches throughout winter.

Bloom Time

—

Critter Resistance

—

Exposure

full sun

Growth Rate

slow

Seasonal Interests

Fall color.