The home of this medium-sized tree, which can grow up to 15 meters high, is the Mediterranean region. This tree species requires a climate of warm summers, mild winters and high precipitation, is extremely tolerant to heat and drought, and hardy. The Hop-hornbeam is a fast-growing species and can live up to 100 years.

The leaves of this deciduous tree are reminiscent of hornbeam foliage. They turn yellow in the fall. Its flowers are rather inconspicuous, but the inflorescences, reminiscent of hop cones, are all the more striking.

The wood is easy to turn, mill and drill. It is extremely hard-wearing, which is why it is often used for manufacturing furniture (particularly chairs).

The hop-hornbeam provides food for insects and birds in the form of pollen and seeds (nuts).