Below, we focus on Ostrya carpinifolia, the European hop-beech. In its early stages, the tree grows upright. Later, this slow-growing tree gradually broadens and forms an oval to round crown. Under favorable growing conditions, the tree can eventually reach a height of 12 to 18 meters. Its specific characteristics make this tree suitable for planting in parks, larger gardens, and along green belts.
In the spring, from March through April, the trees bloom with male, yellow-green catkins that resemble the inflorescence of a birch tree. Later, decorative fruits develop that resemble hop cones, measuring 4 to 6 cm in length; this is where the tree gets its name. The nuts are located at the base of the carpels.
The gray-green trunk has irregular vertical grooves; the flaking, peeling plates are typical of older trees. In the fall, the double-serrated green leaves turn shades of golden yellow and orange. The species name refers to the shape of the leaf; “carpinifolia” refers to the similarities with the leaves of Carpinus betulus.
Ostrya carpinifolia is heat-loving and occurs naturally in southern Europe and Asia Minor. Unfortunately, it is not always a very hardy tree in our climate.
Location of photos: Roermond, Etten-Leur, and our nursery
| Application: | Large Gardens, Small Gardens, Squares and Parks, Standalone Plants, Streets |
|---|---|
| Growing conditions: | Dry (sandy) soil, Normal soil, Tolerates some compaction, Wind-resistant, Sunny |
| Growth habit: | Wide and tall, oval / egg-shaped |
| Adult height: | First size trees 12+ m |
| Origin: | Southern Europe and eastern Turkey |
| Soil: | calcareous |
| Flowers: | yellow-green kittens |
| Fruits: | nuts; the fruits resemble hop cones |
| Environmental factors: | hardy and wind resistant |
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