(Ostrya virginiana)
The Birch family (Betulaceae)
A small to medium sized, graceful, deciduous tree with brown, shaggy to scaly bark and alternate leaves with serrated edges. Also known as Ironwood.
Habitat:
Moist to dry woodlands and forests.
Interesting Facts:
This is one of the hardest and toughest of the native woods. The common name refers to the resemblance of the fruit clusters to hops, an ingredient of beer.
Fruit:
A nutlet is enclosed in a papery envelope, arranged in closely packed drooping clusters that are 1.5 – 2” long.
Flower:
The male and female flowers are both catkins that appear before the leaves.
Wildlife value:
The nutlets and buds are eaten by wildlife such as deer, squirrels, rabbits, and some birds.
Fruit
Male Flowers
Leaf type:
Simple
Pollinator:
Wildlife value:
Tree dimensions:
Leaf length: 1.00-3.50 inches
Tree height: 30.00-60.00 feet
Where to find Eastern Hophornbeam on the Louisiana State Arboretum Trails:
TER - Walker Terrace 15.0
BBR - Backbone Ridge Trail 5.0
Refer to our Live Map to locate this species and its interpretative signage on the trail system.