Common hoptree
Ptelea trifoliata · Rutaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around common hoptree and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Blooming
- Spring (May-June), discreet cream-white flowers
- Adult size
- 3 to 5 m tall, 2 to 4 m wide
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Good (tolerates down to -15 °C)
- Origin
- North America (eastern United States)
- Soil type
- Well-drained, tolerant, undemanding
- Exposure
- Full sun to partial shade
Care
Exposure
Plant your hop tree in full sun or partial shade for optimal growth. In warm climates, partial shade will help it maintain better vigor. This plant adapts well to various locations, provided you avoid dense shade.
Watering
Water regularly during the first two years after planting to establish a solid root system. Once well-established, the hop tree tolerates moderate drought. During the growing season, keep the soil slightly moist, but avoid waterlogging.
Soil and drainage
Prepare a well-drained substrate to prevent root rot. This plant accommodates ordinary, poor to average soils, and even slightly chalky ones. No rich organic matter is necessary; it prefers relatively dry soils.
Pruning and structure
Perform light pruning in late winter or after flowering to maintain a balanced shape. Remove dead or diseased branches. The hop tree branches naturally; moderate pruning is sufficient to maintain a beautiful form.
Fertilizing
No fertilizer is essential once the plant is established. A moderate application of balanced fertilizer in early spring can support growth, but this hardy plant generally thrives with minimal feeding.
Pests and diseases
The hop tree is relatively spared from common pests and diseases. Stay vigilant against excessive moisture that could promote rot. Good air circulation and adequate drainage limit health problems.
Did you know?
The hop tree produces flat, winged fruits (samaras) reminiscent of elm seeds, which is why it's called the 'false elm' in North America. These small papery 'wings' fascinate botanists with their ingenuity in wind dispersal. For a long time, Native Americans used it for its aromatic properties and traditional applications.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Orange treeCitrus sinensis
- Lemon treeCitrus limon
- Seville orangeCitrus aurantium
- Northern prickly ashZanthoxylum americanum
- Mastic-leaf prickly ashZanthoxylum schinifolium
- Amur Cork TreePhellodendron amurense
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.