Ostrya japonica, commonly known as East Asian hophornbeam or Japanese hop-hornbeam, is a deciduous tree native to the temperate forests of Japan, Korea, and China, specifically in regions such as southern Gansu, Hebei, Henan, Hubei, and Shaanxi provinces. It thrives at altitudes between 3281-9186 feet (1000-2800 meters) and can grow up to 82 feet (25 meters) tall. This species is often found in mixed forests, on mountain slopes, and along stream banks, where it contributes to the local ecology by providing habitat and food for wildlife.

The East Asian hophornbeam has a straight trunk with a narrow, rounded crown and features distinctive, flaky bark. It produces inconspicuous flowers followed by showy, papery fruit resembling hops, which are attractive in the late summer and autumn. The tree is valued for its hard, dense wood and is used for fine woodworking and in the creation of traditional tools. In cultivation, it is appreciated for its resistance to urban pollution and is often used in urban plantings, as a street tree, and in parks. It requires well-drained soil, can tolerate a range of pH levels, and prefers full sun to partial shade. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to canker diseases and may not be suitable for areas with poor air circulation or compacted soil.CC BY-SA 4.0