Eastern Hop-hornbeam
Ostrya virginiana
Also known as Ironwood, it is one of the hardest and toughest of the native woods. It is used for fence posts, fuel, and tool handles. This tree is used in landscaping, particularly along boulevards. Its appeal is that it retains its coppery-tan leaves well into or through winter. It provides winter food for ring-necked pheasants, rabbits, grouse, turkeys, deer, squirrels, an several songbirds.
Current Sale Size: 18-24" bare-root transplant.
Growth Rate: Slow
Soils: Sand, Loam
Moisture: Moist, Dry
Shade Tolerance: Full Sun to Shade
Mature Height: 20-50 ft.
Mature Spread: 15-30 ft.
Origin: Native
Deer Damage Potential: Medium
Will not tolerate flooding. Notoriously sensitive to salt.
Hardiness zone: 5-9
Uses: Ornamental, birds, wildlife
USDA Plant Profile