Origin
Ptelea trifoliata L. ssp. pallida (Greene) V. Bailey var. cognata (Greene) Kearney & Peebles, commonly known as Hop-tree or Common Hoptree, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the eastern United States. It is found in central and eastern North America from Manitoba to Florida and from New England to Texas.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as Hop-tree, Hop-tree shrub, Hop-flower, Stinking-ash, or Common Hoptree.
Uses
The Hop-tree's bark, leaves, and fruits are known for their medicinal properties. The plant has been traditionally used as a herbal remedy for treating various health problems. Native Americans used the tree's bark to make a tonic for treating rheumatism and fever, as well as a poultice to treat wounds and sores. The plant was also used to make a tea that was believed to be beneficial for a variety of health conditions such as diarrhea, stomach ailments, and as an insect repellant.
The plant's wood is hard and durable and has been utilized in making tool handles, fence posts, and even small furniture items. The Hop-tree is also used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage, fragrant flowers, and unique fruits.
General Appearance
The Hop-tree is a deciduous shrub or small tree that grows to a maximum height of 25 feet. The plant has an irregular, round-shaped crown and a slender trunk. The leaves are trifoliate with an oval shape and have a length of 3 to 5 inches. They are dark green in color with pointed tips. The Hop-tree bears yellow-green flowers that bloom in late spring and are followed by clusters of brownish-yellow, winged fruit that resemble hops.
The bark of the Hop-tree is gray-brown in color and is smooth on young trees and becomes deeply furrowed with age. The plant prefers well-drained soils and is commonly found along woodland edges, in rocky areas, and in thickets. The Hop-tree is a hardy plant and can grow in USDA zones 5-9.
Growth Conditions for Ptelea trifoliata L. ssp. pallida (Greene) V. Bailey var. cognata (Greene) Kearney & Peebles
Light: This plant requires full sun exposure to grow properly. It can tolerate partial shade but its growth will be stunted.
Temperature: The ideal temperature for Ptelea trifoliata is between 60°F and 90°F. It can tolerate lower temperatures but cannot survive in extreme cold or hot environments.
Soil Requirements: The plant prefers well-drained soils that are slightly acidic to neutral in pH. It can grow in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils, but it prefers loamy soil with organic matter.
Moisture: Ptelea trifoliata requires moderate amounts of moisture to grow. It cannot survive in areas with poor drainage, as this may lead to root rot. However, it can tolerate drought conditions for short periods of time.
Nutrition: This plant does not require much fertilizer. If the soil lacks nutrients, a slow-release fertilizer can be applied during the growing season. Over-fertilization can harm the plant.
Pruning: Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before the growing season begins. Dead or damaged branches should be removed to promote vigorous growth.
Cultivation
Ptelea trifoliata L. ssp. pallida (Greene) V. Bailey var. cognata (Greene) Kearney & Peebles is a hardy shrub that can grow in a wide variety of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The plant prefers full sun and can tolerate partial shade. It can be propagated by seeds or cuttings, although cuttings often have a higher success rate.
Watering Needs
Ptelea trifoliata L. ssp. pallida (Greene) V. Bailey var. cognata (Greene) Kearney & Peebles requires moderate watering. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. The plant can tolerate drought, although it may drop leaves and have reduced growth during prolonged dry spells.
Fertilization
Fertilizer is not necessary for Ptelea trifoliata L. ssp. pallida (Greene) V. Bailey var. cognata (Greene) Kearney & Peebles. However, if the plant is not growing well, a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring or fall. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can cause the plant to grow too rapidly and become weak.
Pruning
Pruning can be done in the late winter or early spring when the plant is dormant. Remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as any that are crossing or rubbing against each other. Prune back old wood to encourage new growth. Trim the plant to maintain its shape as needed.
Propagation of Ptelea trifoliata L. ssp. pallida (Greene) V. Bailey var. cognata (Greene) Kearney & Peebles
The Ptelea trifoliata L. ssp. pallida (Greene) V. Bailey var. cognata (Greene) Kearney & Peebles, commonly known as the Hop Tree, can be propagated through a variety of methods including seed propagation, stem cuttings, and root cuttings.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagation for the Hop Tree. The seeds are best harvested in the fall, when they have fully ripened and turned brown. The seeds should be planted immediately after harvesting, as they do not store well. The seeds can be planted in a soilless mix in a container or directly in the ground, about ½ inch deep. It is essential to provide adequate moisture for seed germination. Germination can take up to two months, and seedlings will require regular watering and fertilization.
Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate the Hop Tree. The cuttings should be taken from the current season's growth, during the late spring or early summer. Cuttings should be approximately 6-8 inches long and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and covered with plastic to maintain humidity. The cuttings should root within 6-8 weeks, and once rooted, they can be transplanted into individual containers or directly into the ground.
Root cuttings
Root cuttings are another way to propagate Hop Trees. Root cuttings should be taken in the fall, when the plant is dormant. Cuttings should be approximately 2-3 inches long and should be planted in a soilless mix in a container or directly in the ground. The cuttings should be kept moist and covered with plastic to maintain humidity. The cuttings should root within 6-8 weeks and can be transplanted, once rooted, into individual containers or directly into the ground.
Disease and Pest Management for Ptelea trifoliata L. ssp. pallida (Greene) V. Bailey var. cognata (Greene) Kearney & Peebles
Ptelea trifoliata L. ssp. pallida (Greene) V. Bailey var. cognata (Greene) Kearney & Peebles, commonly known as hop tree, is a small tree or large shrub that is native to the eastern and central regions of North America.
Common Diseases
One common disease that can affect hop trees is verticillium wilt, which is caused by the soil-borne fungus Verticillium dahliae. This disease can cause yellowing, wilting, and curling of leaves, as well as dieback of branches. To manage this disease, infected plants should be removed and destroyed, and the soil should be solarized or treated with fungicides before replanting.
Another disease that can affect hop trees is powdery mildew, which is caused by the fungus Erysiphe cichoracearum. This disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems, as well as stunted growth. To manage this disease, infected plants can be treated with fungicides, and cultural practices such as pruning and improving air circulation can also be helpful.
Common Pests
One common pest that can affect hop trees is the hop tree borer, which is the larvae of a longhorn beetle. This pest can cause wilting, yellowing, and dieback of branches, as well as the presence of holes and sawdust-like frass on the branches and trunk. To manage this pest, infested branches should be pruned and destroyed, and the tree can be treated with insecticides.
Another pest that can affect hop trees is spider mites, which are tiny arachnids that can cause yellowing, stippling, and webbing on the leaves. To manage this pest, infected plants can be treated with insecticidal soap or miticides, and cultural practices such as maintaining proper watering and fertilization can also be helpful.
