Catkins appear in early spring when new leaves appear. Male flowers are 3/4-2 ” long and arranged in groups up to 4. The female catkins are shorter, .30 to .50 ” long and contain 10-30 flowers. Pollinated flowers form small nutlets 1/8- 1/4 inches long fully enclosed and papery sac-shaped. The seed changes from greenish white to dull brown.
| Family | Birch |
|---|---|
| Season Bloom | Spring |
| Habitat | Hop Hornbeam or Ironwood is one of the hardest and toughest wood in our native woods. Is usually found in shade locations, but also does well in full sun. Grows slowly. Can survive drought, but not flooding. It is recognizable by its narrow shaggy plates flaking off its bark. Catkins are eaten by birds and nutlets and buds are eaten by birds, deer, and rabbits. |
| Cycle | |
| Height | 36-72" |
| Leaf Description | Leaves are ovate, 2-5 " long, 1.5-2.25 " wide pinnately veined with a double serrated margin. Lower surface is moderately fuzzy. |
| Soil Type | All Types |
| Light Source | All Types |
| Location | Woodland |
