Ironwood

Common Name

Ironwood/American Hophornbeam

Scientific (Latin) Name

Ostrya virginiana

French name

Ironwood

leaves

The leaves are oval shaped and have pointy bits at the end.

Bud description

The ironwood buds are widely spread in shape. They have long and thin branches, the oval shaped slightly hairy buds of the Ironwood measure 3-4 mm long.

Bark description

Older Ironwoods have flaky bits of rough bark. The little ones have reddish brown bark and is very smooth.

Branch arrangement

(opposite or alternate) alternate

what they need to thrive

They prefer well drained acidic soil prefers shade but tolerate full sun with ample moisture moist to dry .

food and habitat

It does not house any animals because it's too small but it does give food to mainly birds and squirrels.

Is this tree native to North america?

Yes they can be found in the wild near lake nipissing and sault ste. marie.

How big does this species grow?

Ironwood trees can grow up to 1m meters and 25 cm in diameter and grow up to 40 feet in height .

Does this tree have any traditional uses in indigenous cultures?

Yes the wood was realy hard so they used it for things that need to be durable.