Hophornbeam, American (Ironwood), Bare Root

American Hophornbeam (Ostrya virginiana)

Also known as “Ironwood,” American Hophornbeam is a small, understory native tree with dense, durable wood and strong ecological value. It provides critical food and shelter for birds and insects, and thrives in dry, rocky, or shaded sites where few other trees perform well.

Key Characteristics

• Supports native wildlife and insects – Hosts dozens of moth and butterfly larvae, and provides nutlet-like fruit for birds and small mammals.
• Slow-growing and long-lived – Excellent for long-term planting in shade gardens or woodland restoration zones.
• Beautiful bark and winter texture – Flaky, cat-scratch bark adds year-round visual interest in understory plantings.
• Drought and shade tolerant – Thrives in dry, rocky woodlands and full shade once established.
• Native forest layer species – Works well in layered plantings and permaculture guilds as an understory tree.

Product Details

• Native Range: Eastern North America
• Plant Life Cycle: Deciduous tree
• Sun Requirements: Part shade to full shade
• Soil Requirements: Dry to medium, well-drained
• Mature Height: 25–40 ft
• Bloom Time: April–May
• Bloom Color: Yellow-green (inconspicuous)
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–9

Choose Hophornbeam for shady or rocky sites where you need native structure, wildlife value, and longevity in one quiet but powerful package.