5 Seeds American Hophornbeam Tree Ostrya virginiana Shade Tree

American Hophornbeam (Ostrya virginiana) is a slow-growing, small to medium deciduous tree admired for its graceful form, hop-like seed clusters, and dependable shade. It features finely textured, serrated green leaves that turn warm yellow in autumn, and its shaggy, narrow brown seed catkins resemble hops, adding late-season ornamental interest. This understory native is a long-lived, stately addition to woodland gardens, naturalized areas, and spacious home landscapes.

The strong, close-grained wood and tidy canopy make American Hophornbeam an excellent specimen or shade tree. Its hop-like clusters are often used in dried arrangements and seasonal decor, while the foliage provides a soft, layered texture in mixed plantings. It prefers consistent moisture and tolerates part shade, growing best in rich, well-drained woodland soils.
Species: Ostrya virginiana
Type: Deciduous tree
Plant Habit: Upright, rounded canopy
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Soil: Well-drained, moist, loamy
Zones: 3 to 9
Germination: Cold stratification recommended to improve germination
Sowing: Surface sow, lightly press into soil, keep moist
Spacing: 20 to 30 feet apart
Notes: Slow growing, long lived, native understory tree