This native shrub is the host plant for the giant swallowtail butterfly.
Native to North America, hoptree prefers mild-to-cool climates and average humidity.
It thrives in spots that getpartial sunlight.
Harsh afternoon sun can scorch its foliage.
However, in some locations, hoptree tolerates full sun.
But it prefers loamy soil that is rich in organic matter and has good drainage.
Plus, it likes a relativelyneutral soil pH.
Water
The shadier the conditions, the lower the water needs.
Hoptree has some drought tolerance after it is established.
The soil around young hoptree shrubs should be kept consistently moist.
Apply a 2-inchlayer of mulcharound the base to prevent the soil from drying out too fast.
Temperature and Humidity
Hoptree shrubs tolerate the wide range of temperatures within their growing zones quite well.
However, frost and unseasonably cold temperatures potentially damage tender new growth in the spring.
Humidity typically isnt an issue.
In very high humidity, good airflow around the shrub helps to prevent fungal diseases.
Fertilizer
Hoptree grows best in organically rich soil but can also thrive in average soil.
Usually mixing some compost into the soil around the shrub every spring is sufficient.
If you think the soil lacks nutrients, perform a soil test before you apply any fertilizer.
If necessary, prune your hoptree over the winter while its dormant to clean up its shape.
Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased portions as they arise.
And to prevent unwanted spread, remove suckers (stems growing up from the base of the plant).
Propagating Hoptree
Hoptree can be propagated by softwood cuttings or seeds.
To take a softwood cutting from the hoptree, wait until early spring when new growth is appearing.
Bloom Months
Hoptree blooms in spring or early summer, usually in May or June.
What Do Hoptree Flowers Look and Smell Like?
Hoptree’s small, greenish-yellow flowers aren’t particularly showy but are beloved by pollinators.
Hoptree flowers do emit a unique scent that some consider lemony but others consider musky and unpleasant.
If your hoptree is struggling to bloom, evaluate the tree for general health issues.
Caring for Hoptree After It Blooms
Hoptree does not require any particular care after blooming.
Continue to care for the tree as you have been.
Avoid pruning until it goes dormant in winter.
Deadheading Hoptree Flowers
There is no reason to deadhead hoptree flowers.
Removing spent flowers will not inspire significant re-blooming.
Hoptree is in the citrus family and some people appreciate the intense scent reminiscent of orange-blossoms.
Plant of the Week: Wafer Ash (Hop Tree).
University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service.
North Carolina State Extension.
