Text Box: This species is found in the understory of moist upland hardwood forests. Ostrya virginiana is deciduous and has broad simple leaves. Text Box: Ostrya virginiana (P. Mill.) K. Koch; American Hop-hornbeam Text Box: N C STATE UNIVERSITY

Bark peels into thin strips. The bark is similar in appearance to Juniperus virginiana. However, O. virginiana is a broadleaf, and  deciduous unlike J. virginiana.

Coloring of the bark appears darker in the shade. Do not be deceived, color and appearance can vary with-in the different light conditions of the woods.

Sapling bark is similar to mature bark being both shreddy and peely.

Leaves are simple occurring on thin branches.