When it comes to small trees for small gardens, Hop Tree is an underutilized and underappreciated contender. Green leaflets emerge in groups of three, followed by clusters of small, whitish blooms in late spring. In mid-summer, the namesake delicate papery fruits begin to form, which were once used as a hops substitute by German immigrants in the 19th century.
A tree like no other, Hop Tree is one of only a few regional native plants from the citrus family (Rutaceae). While this family is typically known for its tastier members like grapefruit, orange, and lime, plants in the citrus family also serve as larval hosts for the most spectacular butterfly in North America – the giant swallowtail. With some luck and a Hop Tree, you may get the opportunity to invite caterpillars and adults alike of the giant swallowtail to your garden and bask in the beauty of their striking colors and fascinating larval camouflage.
Conditions: Full sun to full shade; moist, well-drained soils; widely adaptableSize: 10’-20’ tall, 10’-15’ spread
Zone: 3-9
Wildlife Value: Flowers attract pollinating flies and wasps; fruits eaten by small mammals and some birds; larval host for Giant Swallowtail, largest butterfly in North America
Photos: Dave Korbonits, Samantha Nestory