Shagbark Hickory (Carya ovata)

Shagbark hickory (Carya ovata) is a member of the plant family that includes walnuts and pecans. It is a large deciduous tree that can grow over 100 feet tall and live for hundreds of years.  It produces a sweet nut that is often used as a substitute for pecan. Although not native to our part of Canada (native as far north as southern Maine / Quebec south of Montreal), this species is of interest for us as a wild nut tree crop.  So far in the trials on our woodlot, winters haven't been an issue for them.

Prefers fertile, well-drained soil and full to partial sun.

Seed Source(s): Ontario

Hardiness (Canada): 5

A musing on bare root hickory seedlings: of all the species we grow and ship, these are the most 'sparse' looking when plucked from their home in the air pruning beds.  Don't be alarmed though, they'll take right off in the spring.