Ptelea trifoliata, also called common hoptree, is a deciduous perennial shrubby tree that belongs to the citrus family, Rutaceae. P. trifoliata is native to North America where it can be found growing in Canada, the United States, and Mexico. This species grows up to 20 feet tall with a crown spread of 10-15 feet wide. The bark is reddish to gray brown with small horizontal lenticels scattered all over. Ptelea trifoliata leaves are compound trifoliate and alternatively arranged with oil glands dotting each ovate leaflet. Leaves fall during autum and flowers bloom in May and June. Flowers of this species have 4 to 5 greenish white petals that are narrow and rounded at the ends. P. trifoliata fruit are round and papery samara that ripen in late fall and stay on the tree until winter winds blow them down. Common Hoptree prefers well-draining soil and does well in moderately moist conditions. It's important to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the plant's adolescence and establishment period. This species is also drought tolerant when established and thrives in full sun to partial shade. The seeds of this plant have been used in brewing throughout history as a hop replacement, giving this species this common name. It is also used as an insect repellent due to the pungent smell released when the leaves are crushed. USDA plant hardiness zone 5 through 9.
Ptelea trifoliata seeds should be pretreated with a light scarification from sandpaper or a file which significantly reduces germination time and success as the seed coat is hard and waterproof. This can be achieved by lightly scratching the surface of the seed being careful to not damage the embryo inside. After scarification, soak the seeds in warm water for 1 day prior to planting. Plant the seeds ¼ to ½ inch deep in a well draining potting mix. Cover sown pots in plastic or place them in a larger container to retain moisture and humidity. Place sown pots in indirect yet bright sunlight (or grow lights) with a temperature ranging between 70°F to 75°F. Germination typically takes 6 to 10 weeks to occur. Even with optimal conditions, germination may be slow and sporadic.
INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING DISCLAIMER:
All packages will be shipped with basic customs information such as; HS codes, VAT numbers, and properly labeled contents. Unfortunately, The Garden of Set is unable to provide phytosanitary certificates for orders at this time. It is the buyer’s responsibility to know local laws regarding the import of plants, seeds, and plant products into their country. It is also up to the buyer to provide any other customs forms or information required to import plants into their country. If packages get stopped by customs, The Garden of Set will not be able to provide a refund for the purchase. Most of the time packages make it to their destinations just fine, this is for the small minority of packages that get stopped without having all the proper customs information required by the country of import. Purchase at your own discretion.