Hophornbeam is a small understory tree of eastern upland forests with hop-like clusters of papery seed husks that rattle in winter. Its wood is the hardest of any North American broadleaf tree, earning it the nickname 'ironwood.' The seeds are eaten by ruffed grouse, pheasants, and small mammals, and its catkins provide spring food for grouse.
Habitat
Dry to moist upland forest understory across eastern North America
Diet
Seeds eaten by ruffed grouse, pheasants, and small mammals
How common
Common
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