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Eastern hophornbeam

Ostrya virginiana | Family: Betulaceae

submission: Chrissy McIntire

Identification:

Leaves—

long, narrow, green-yellow color, medium-sized, sharp edges

Twigs—

long, thin, dark chestnut color

Flowers—

green clusters

Fruit—

small, flat, brown seeds.

Bark—

smooth texture and gray color

Hover over one of the descriptions to see an example.

picture of leaves picture of bark picture of twigs picture of fruit picture of flowers

 

Natural History:

Lifespan—

Lifespan: 100–150 years.

General description—

This is a smaller and shorter tree that is slow-growing; as these trees get older, they lose their original pyramid shape and they develop a rounded shape. This tree is easily sensitive to tree diseases. Preferable to grow this tree in neutral temperatures.

Natural distribution and habitat—

Native to North America. (usually found in the east especially in Ohio.)

Conservation status—

No serious threats since this tree is not used in the timber industry.

Uses—

Wildlife feed on this tree. Humans use it for firewood, landscaping, and medicinal purposes.
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