Ironwood, Hophornbeam, Hop Hornbeam American, Hop Hornbeam Eastern

Ostrya virginiana

Physical Characteristics

Ostrya virginiana is a deciduous Tree growing to 15 m (49ft) by 12 m (39ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower in September. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Nova Scotia to Manitoba, Nebraska, Florida and Texas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Antirheumatic Astringent Blood tonic Haemostatic Pectoral The bark is astringent, blood tonic and haemostatic[257]. A decoction of the bark is used to bathe sore muscles[257]. An infusion of the bark can be held in the mouth to relieve the pain of toothache[257]. An infusion of the heartwood has been used in the treatment of lung haemorrhages, coughs and colds, catarrh and kidney problems[257]. It is also used as a herbal steam bath in the treatment of rheumatism[257].

Known Hazards

None known