Common Hoptree (Ptelea trifoliata)
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The Common Hoptree (Ptelea trifoliata) is a small tree that can reach 6 to 8 meters high in the Rutaceae family. The leaves are alternate, trifoliate, aromatic. Flowering occurs in early summer. The flowers are cream colored, have 4 or 5 petals and are grouped in terminal groups. The fruit matures late in the season; it is dry, discoid, and contains 2 or 3 seeds. The typical Ptelea trifoliata subspecies occurs from the lower Great Lakes and eastern Pennsylvania to northern Florida and Texas. Its bark, leaves and fruits give off a strong smell of hops when crushed. Moreover, its fruits can be used as a substitute for hops in the making of beer. Other subspecies are present further south and west, as far as Mexico. In Canada it is a designated threatened species given the low number of individuals and the threats to its habitat. Excellent ornamental tree for limited spaces in the city. Common hoptree grows rather slowly and has few pathological or entomological problems.
