Description

The California hoptree is a rare little tree found in a variety of plant communities in the northern half of the state. In the SF Bay Area it seems to be particularly common on Mt. Diablo. Scattered trees may also be found in the eastern portions of Henry Coe State Park. The hoptree has many characteristics that recommend it for wider use in gardens. It grows as a rounded, open tree to about twenty feet with bright green compound leaves held against dark gray bark. The spring flowers appear in panicles of bright white and are quite fragrant. It is adaptable to a variety of soil types and thrives in full sun or light shade. The California hoptree is a good candidate for a naturalized (i.e. no supplemental irrigation) garden since its water requirements are quite low. It does, however, need regular water to become established which may take a few years.