Eastern Hophornbeam is a charming native tree, botanically called Ostrya virginiana, that adds a refined touch to any landscape. Its medium-green leaves have a slight shimmer in the summer sun, then transition to gentle yellows come fall. This slow-growing species typically matures around 20 to 35 feet in height, creating an appealing understory accent or small shade option without overwhelming a garden. The bark’s scaly texture offers extra visual interest in winter, making this tree notable year-round.
Eastern Hophornbeam stands out for its ability to adapt, from clay to rocky soil and everything in between. Native to Eastern North America, it tolerates moderate drought once established and manages in partial to deep shade. Wildlife benefits from its twigs and seeds, helping local ecosystems thrive. You can plant it as a small feature tree in a lawn, arrange multiples along a boundary for a rugged yet orderly hedge, or simply let it blend gracefully into a woodland-themed border. Although generally disease-free, it occasionally sees browsing by rabbits or deer, but stands up well to everyday pests and typical garden conditions.
Eastern Hophornbeam Care
Amend the planting area with organic matter if the soil is overly dense or poor in nutrients. Maintain consistent moisture during the first few growing seasons, and provide partial sun if possible, though it can accept deeper shade. Neutral to slightly acidic soils work best, but the tree is tolerant of varied pH levels. Light fertilization in early spring can boost growth, but frequent feeding is usually unnecessary. With minimal intervention, Eastern Hophornbeam gradually settles into its spot, rewarding you with dependable foliage and understated beauty.
Pruning needs are minimal. Remove any crossing or damaged branches in late winter to enhance form and airflow. Occasional thinning in denser canopies allows sunlight to reach the interior leaves, promoting a healthier structure. Consider light shaping if you wish to maintain a more tailored silhouette or limit height, but more extensive cuts are rarely needed. Winter is the preferred season for pruning, reducing sap flow and stress on the tree.
Eastern Hophornbeam Spacing
For a row or screening effect, allow about 25-30 feet between trunks, which promotes proper airflow and attractive side branching. If you prefer a tight grouping, spacing can be slightly reduced, but 20 feet is the minimum for mature development. Select a large container at least 18 inches in diameter, although in-ground planting encourages the best long-term results.
- SKU:
- 1231013900-pc
Container Sizes
Please Note: The pictures below are to give a general representation of the different container sizes. The actual size/ages of plants are estimates and will vary based on type of plant, time of year, last pruning & many other factors.

Quart Pot
Also Known As:
Quart
Plant Age:
~ 6 months - 1 year
Plant Size:
~ 4"-8"
Pot Size:
~ 4.75"H x 4.5"W
Volume:
1.50 quarts

2.5 Quart
Also Known As:
2.5 Quart Pot
Plant Age:
~ 1 - 2 years old
Plant Size:
~ 8"-12"
Pot Size:
~ 6.5"H x 6.5"W
Volume:
2.20-2.30 quarts

#1 Pot
Also Known As:
#1 Container
1 Gallon
Plant Age:
~ 1 - 2 years old
Plant Size:
~ 10"-14"
Pot Size:
~ 7"H x 7.75"W
Volume:
2.26-3.73 quarts

#2 Pot
Also Known As:
#2 Container
2 Gallon
Plant Age:
~ 1.5 - 3 years old
Plant Size:
~ 12"-18"
Pot Size:
~ 9.5"H x 9.5"W
Volume:
1.19-1.76 gallons

#3 Pot
Also Known As:
#3 Container
3 Gallon
Plant Age:
~ 2 - 4 years old
Plant Size:
~ 12"-30"
Pot Size:
~9.5"H x 11"W
Volume:
2.32-2.76 gallons

#5 Pot
Also Known As:
#5 Container
5 Gallon
Plant Age:
~3-4 years old
Plant Size:
~ 20" - 60"
Pot Size:
~11" H x 10 1/2” W
Volume:
3.5 - 4 gallons

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Pre-Ordered Plants
Pre-ordered plants are scheduled to ship in Spring 2025. We carefully plan our shipping dates based on your USDA Plant Hardiness Zone to ensure optimal planting conditions upon arrival. Want it sooner/later? Reach out, and we'll try our best to accommodate.
Estimated Spring Shipping Schedule
Estimated ship week for pre-ordered plants will ship based on growing zones as shown below.
Growing Zone | Estimated Ship Week |
---|---|
Zone 10 | March 24th |
Zone 9 | March 31st |
Zone 8 | April 7th |
Zone 7 | April 14th |
Zone 6b | April 21st |
Zone 6a | April 28th |
Zone 5b | May 5th |
Zone 5a | May 12th |
Zone 4 | May 19th |
Zone 3 | May 26th |
Note: These are only estimated ship dates. Plants may ship out later depending on weather & growing conditions of the plant.
Note: Only plants indicated as pre-order will ship as shown above. All other plants and hard goods will ship as normal.
Plants Shipping Now
Plants that are currently in stock typically ship within 2-7 business days after your order is placed.