Eastern Hophornbeam
A pretty, medium-sized tree native to PEI that should be planted more widely. It has good structure, is tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions and resists many pests. It grows moderately slowly and can reach 70 years of age. The leaves are deep green and the yellow-green hop-like seed cones that appear in the Spring provide additional color to this already elegant tree. The bark is brown and develops scales with age. The Fall color is bright yellow to bronze. The wood of hophornbeam is very hard and was used by the Mi’kmaq to make hockey sticks and todate is used for tool handles.
| Size | 3 Feet |
|---|---|
| Native | No |
| Height | 40 Feet |
| Spread | 25 Feet |
| Habit | Pyramidal |
| Tolerance | Shade |
| Leaves/Flowers | Dark green – serrated |
| Height | Container |
| 3 Feet | 3 Gallon |
Preferred Site
Full sun or partial shade – understory tree. Tolerant of many soil types and of wide range of pH. Can live in dry but not wet soil, for best results needs some moisture and a sheltered location.
Maintenance Notes
Prune in late winter once coldest days passed. Slow grower. Shallow roots. Does not like wet soil. Resistant to diseases. Single or multi-trunk possible. Resists breakage. “ostrya” = bone/horn =
