Also known as Ironwood, this is an understory tree from the birch family with hop-like fruits. As its name implies, it is a tough hardwood that is resistant to many diseases and insects.
Pollinator Type
None (besides caterpillars)
Plant Type
Deciduous tree
Zone
3 to 9
Height
25-40 ft
Spread
15-40 ft
Light
Partial Shade, Full Sun
Moisture Requirement
Medium Soil
Bloom Color
Yellow
Bloom Time
April, May
Design Considerations
Does well as a street tree and planted in residential areas or parks. The fruit is food for pheasants, rabbits, turkeys, deer, squirrels, and several songbirds.
Care and Maintenance
Can tolerate dry soils. Not tolerant of salt. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring.
Pest and Diseases
No major issues.
Establishment and Propagation
Difficult to transplant and slow to establish. Difficult to germinate from seed. If starting from seed, wear gloves as clusters can be itchy. Dry the fruit and then beat to obtain inner seed. Cold stratify seeds. Hop hornbeam requires a double dormancy in a moist medium to germinate. Can also propagate from cuttings.
Commercial Availability
Commonly available.
Alternative Plant Selections
Common Beech, River Birch
Native Status
Illinois native statewide.
Fall Color
Leaves turn yellow in fall.
Growth habit
Pyramidal, round
Number of Caterpillars that Use this as a Host Plant
