Ptelea trifoliata
hop tree
P. trifoliata is a large, deciduous shrub with dark green, tripartite leaves to 12cm long. Sprays of star-shaped, pale green flowers appear in summer, followed by bunches of flattened, winged seeds up to 2.5cm across. Leaves, flowers and bark are all aromatic
Other common names
shrubby trefoilstinking ash
see moreswamp devil's bit
wafer ash
water ash
wing seed
swamp dogwood
Buy this plant
Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metresTime to ultimate height
20–50 yearsUltimate spread
2.5–4 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Rutaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Ptelea are large, spreading deciduous shrubs with pungently scented, 3-foliate leaves and small yellow-green flowers in summer followed by attractive winged fruits
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- USA
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in fertile well-drained soil in full or dappled sun. Suitable for shrub border or as a lawn specimen
Propagation
Propagate by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Low Maintenance
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus in gardens where it is present but insufficient data to determine degree of susceptibility
Get involved
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