American Hophornbeam

American Hophornbeam (Ostrya virginiana) is a distinctive native species with lots of bonsai cultivation potential. Hophornbeam is extremely cold hardy and tolerates full sun exposure better than its American Hornbeam cousin. Its ornamental features include decorative hop-like pod clusters in summer and elongated golden catkins that persist through winter, creating multi-season interest. Its foliage reduces easily and responds well to clip-and-grow methods. Meanwhile its bark develops an appealing shaggy texture with age, lending maturity to bonsai specimens. 

Note that this species is deciduous and will not have leaves if shipped during the winter. The trees pictured are representative examples and will not be the exact trees you receive. Some may have wire for movement or branch placement.

Specifications:

• Scientific name: Ostrya virginiana
• Height: 12"-20"
• Trunk: 3/8"-5/8"
• Hardness Zone: 3-9