Hornbeam, Hop Hornbeam 2"
Hop Hornbeam
Ostrya virginiana
Height: Typically 20–30 feet tall in Michigan’s cooler climate
Spread: Approximately 15–25 feet wide
Spacing: Plant 15–25 feet apart for balanced landscape structure
Growth Rate: Moderate
Native: Native to Michigan
Description
Hop Hornbeam is a striking, medium-sized deciduous tree that adds refined structure and seasonal interest to your landscape. Its finely textured, green foliage forms a dense crown that stays lush in summer and transforms into a warm, golden display in the fall. While its inconspicuous spring flowers give way to small, dry nut-like fruits that offer subtle textural detail, the tree’s true appeal lies in its elegant form and moderate size—ideal for specimen plantings, borders, or mixed landscape arrangements.
General Care
- Sunlight: Thrives in full sun to partial sun (minimum 5 hours of direct light daily)
- Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soils enriched with organic matter
- Watering: Provide consistent, moderate watering during the growing season, with adjustments for cooler Michigan conditions
- Mulching: Apply a 2–3-inch layer of mulch around the base to conserve moisture and maintain a stable soil temperature
- Pruning: Minimal pruning is needed; remove only dead or weak branches in late winter or early spring to preserve its natural shape
Elevate your landscape with the sophisticated appeal of Hop Hornbeam—a low-maintenance, beautifully textured tree that delivers year‐round interest and balanced structure in Michigan’s cooler climate.