Ostrya

Description

Ostrya is a genus of deciduous trees that belongs to the birch family, Betulaceae. This beautiful tree is known for its unique features, including its bark, leaves, and fruit. The tree is native to North America, Europe, and Asia and is commonly found in forests, woodlands, and along riverbanks. Ostrya is also commonly referred to as the Hop-hornbeam due to the resemblance of its seeds to hops.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Ostrya trees can grow up to 20-40 feet tall and have a spread of 15-25 feet. The bark of the tree is smooth and grayish-brown, becoming flaky as the tree matures. The leaves are dark green and oval-shaped with a serrated edge. The fruit of the tree is a small, round nut enclosed in a papery, bladder-like husk that resembles hops. The nut is edible and has a sweet, nutty flavor.

Care Guide

Ostrya trees are relatively easy to care for and require minimal maintenance. Here are some tips for caring for your Ostrya tree:

• Water: Ostrya trees prefer moist soil, so be sure to water them regularly during the growing season. However, make sure not to overwater them as this can lead to root rot.
• Fertilization: Fertilize your Ostrya tree once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: Ostrya trees prefer well-draining, fertile soil. If your soil is poor, amend it with compost or other organic matter.
• Sunlight: Ostrya trees prefer partial shade to full sun.
• Hardiness Zones: Ostrya trees are hardy in USDA zones 3-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Ostrya trees are relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues that you might encounter:

• Japanese beetles: These beetles can defoliate Ostrya trees. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
• Aphids: These small insects can cause leaf curling and stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
• Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spotting and defoliation. Prune affected branches and use a fungicide to control it.

Habitat

Ostrya trees are native to North America, Europe, and Asia and are commonly found in forests, woodlands, and along riverbanks. They prefer well-draining, fertile soil and partial shade to full sun.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Ostrya trees tolerate drought?
A: Ostrya trees prefer moist soil but can tolerate short periods of drought once they are established.

Q: Is the fruit of the Ostrya tree edible?
A: Yes, the fruit of the Ostrya tree is edible and has a sweet, nutty flavor.

Q: How fast does an Ostrya tree grow?
A: Ostrya trees grow relatively slowly, typically growing up to 1-2 feet per year.

Q: Can Ostrya trees be grown in containers?
A: Ostrya trees can be grown in containers, but they may not grow as large as those grown in the ground.

Related Plants

• Betula (Birch)
• Corylus (Hazel)
• Alnus (Alder)
• Carpinus (Hornbeam)

References

• “Ostrya.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l400.
• “Ostrya.” The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/ostrya.
• “Ostrya.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 10 Mar. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ostrya.