Contents
Description
Ostrya Rehderiana, commonly known as Chinese hophornbeam, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Betulaceae family. It is native to China and can grow up to 15 meters tall. The bark of the tree is gray-brown and has a scaly texture. The leaves of Ostrya Rehderiana are alternate, simple, and ovate in shape. They are dark green in color and have a serrated edge. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring, which are followed by small, round fruit that resembles hops.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukaryota |
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Tracheophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Fagales |
Family | Betulaceae |
Genus | Ostrya |
Appearance
Ostrya Rehderiana is a medium-sized tree with a rounded crown. Its bark is thin, smooth, and gray-brown in color. The leaves are dark green and ovate in shape, with a serrated edge. They turn yellow in the fall. The tree produces small flowers in the spring, which are not very showy. The fruit that follows is small and round, resembling hops. Ostrya Rehderiana has a moderate growth rate and can live up to 50-70 years.
Care Guide
Ostrya Rehderiana is a relatively low-maintenance tree. Here are some care tips to keep it healthy:
Water
The tree prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water it deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the fall and winter.
Fertilization
Fertilize Ostrya Rehderiana in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil
The tree prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5-7.0. It can grow in a variety of soils, including clay, loam, and sand.
Sunlight
Ostrya Rehderiana prefers full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
The tree is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ostrya Rehderiana is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spots, cankers, and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, ensure proper drainage and air circulation around the tree. If necessary, apply fungicide or insecticide.
Habitat
Ostrya Rehderiana is native to China, where it grows in forests and along streams. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ostrya Rehderiana a fast-growing tree?
A: No, Ostrya Rehderiana has a moderate growth rate.
Q: What is the hardiness zone of Ostrya Rehderiana?
A: Ostrya Rehderiana is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Q: Does Ostrya Rehderiana produce showy flowers?
A: No, the flowers of Ostrya Rehderiana are small and inconspicuous.
Q: How long can Ostrya Rehderiana live?
A: Ostrya Rehderiana can live up to 50-70 years.
Related Plants
Here are some other plants in the Betulaceae family:
- Betula nigra
- Carpinus caroliniana
- Corylus avellana
- Alnus glutinosa
References
- Flora of China. (2021). Ostrya. http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=124370
- Gardening Know How. (2021). Ostrya hophornbeam tree care: tips for growing hop hornbeams. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/hophornbeam/growing-hop-hornbeams.htm
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Ostrya. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a205