Tree Identification
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Ostrya virginiana - Ironwood or Hop-hornbeam
leaves and nutlets in papery sacks - Late June.
Leaf and nutlets in October
The immature seed in early June.
The shredded bark of ironwood.
The male catkins (flower) early spring extension
The male catkins (flower) as they would appear late summer into the winter.
All Images By: Dave Hanson
  • Characteristics
Ostrya virginiana is a Minnesota native. Two common names are usually listed: Ironwood and hop-hornbeam. This tree is typically of smaller stature and it does well in city environments. In the wild, ironwood is an under-story tree that thrives in the shade of the overstory.

Smallto Medium tree height: 30-35'
Canopy spreads: 25-30', oval crown
Drought Tolerance: Intermediate
Shade Tolerance: Tolerant
Soil pH Tolerance: Intermediate to high pH
Poor Soil Drainage: Intermediate to flooding
Salt Tolerance:

 Sensitive in tolerance to salt spray and Sensitive in tolerance to soil salts.
Quick ID: its habit is rounded to oval and some describe the bark as shredded wheat. The bark separates into 1/4 inch vertical strips that develop a slight curl lifting them away from the trunk. Male flowers droop in catkins and are present most of the year. The female flowers called "aments" are inconspicuous. The fruits (nutlets) are displayed in puffy pillow-like clusters. The leaves are simple, alternate, doubly serrate coming to a pointy tip. Leaves are dark lustrous green and they turn a golden yellow in the fall. Leaf buds are small and set close to the slender zig-zag twig.

Ostrya virginiana is a slow starter but once it is established will grow nicely.

It is adaptable in its sunlight requirements. It likes a moist well-drained soil but is somewhat tolerant of drought. Salt tolerance is low as well as pollution.

Did you know
The wood as the name implies is very strong. Typical uses included fuel, fences, tool handles and many other uses where a hard wood was required.