Wafer Ash - Ptelea trifoliata

Note: This is the smaller 1 gal size, and so a lower price.

Also known as Hop Tree.

Features: Wafer Ash is not a true Ash but its leaves look similar. It is a small tree but can also grow as a large multi-stemmed shrub on tough sites. It has aromatic white flowers, leaves and fruit since it is a member of the citrus family, Rutaceae. It is a host of the Giant Swallowtail butterfly and several other insects. Its wafer-like seeds can provide food for wildlife over the winter. It is said that pioneers used the seed as a substitute for hops.

Light: full sun to part shade

Soil: Dry to medium

Height: up to 10-15 ft.

Width: 10 ft.

Blooms: spring

Flower color: white

Fall color: yellow

Special note: pollinator hot spot, butterfly host and nectar plant, loved by birds

See more information and photos at: Illinois Wildflowers and Morton Arboretum