About
Ptelea trifoliata, the hop tree, is a large, spreading, deciduous shrub or small tree producing trifoliate, dark-green, aromatic leaves and sprays of star-shaped, pale-green flowers in summer, followed by bunches of flattened, winged seeds. A rewarding and ornamental shrub for a sunny, sheltered border.
About the genus
Ptelea are large, spreading, deciduous shrubs with pungently scented, three-leaflet leaves, small, yellow-green flowers in summer and attractive, winged fruits. Grown as ornamental specimen shrubs and small trees.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height4-8 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toUSA
FragranceBark, Flower, Foliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile well-drained soil in full or dappled sun. Suitable for shrub border or as a lawn specimen
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus in gardens where it is present but insufficient data to determine degree of susceptibility