European Hop hornbeam

The European hop hornbeam is a beautiful small tree that can grow to heights of 15 to 20 m, particularly appreciated in the Mediterranean countries and, in France, on the Riviera and in Corsica.

Names

The European hop hornbeam (Ostrya carpinifolia) is also called the "Old World hop hornbeam". It is a member of the Betulaceae family.

The European hop hornbeam is also called the Old World hop hornbeam. © Stephen Seiberling, Flickr CC by nc-nd 2.0

Botanical description

This species has a rather diffuse crown which rounds with age. Its ash grey bark peels off in plates. Its leaves are deciduous, alternate, slightly pubescent, especially on their lower face, and dentate. These leaves have 12 to 15 pairs of very distinct veins. Its male flowers are hanging catkins, while its female flowers are erect, terminal catkins, forming hanging fruit (which look like hops) when ripe.

Ostrya carpinifolia. © Qsimple, Flickr CC by nc-sa 2.0

Origins

This tree is originally from Mediterranean countries, where it prospers near the Aleppo pine, the maritime pine and the pubescent oak.

Growing conditions

This tree can grow in arid soil, in sunlight or partial shade. It thrives in light, humus rich and even calcareous and dry or moderately humid soil. This is a very hardy species, which can withstand temperatures at least down to -20 °C.

Use

The European hop hornbeam is a very beautiful tree planted individually in parks and gardens or used to create decorative alignments. Its wood is quite strong and hard.

Author: Michel Caron