Shagbark Hickory
Carya ovata
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Description
Shagbark Hickory (Carya ovata) is a deciduous tree native to the eastern United States and parts of Canada, recognized for its distinctive shaggy bark that peels away in long strips. It can reach heights of up to 30 meters and plays a crucial role in agroecology as a keystone species. Its deep root system aids in soil stabilization and water retention, making it valuable in regenerative agriculture. The tree provides habitat and food for various wildlife, including squirrels, birds, and pollinators. In a food forest, it serves as an overstory layer, offering shade and protection for understory plants. Historically, Native American tribes utilized the nuts for food and the wood for tools and construction. Companion plants include nitrogen-fixing species like clover and understory shrubs such as elderberry, which benefit from the hickory's protective canopy.
Growing Details
Shagbark Hickory thrives in well-drained, loamy soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include clover and elderberry, which benefit from the hickory's canopy. Common mistakes include planting in poorly drained soils and neglecting young trees' water needs. Harvest nuts in late fall when they naturally drop from the tree. Store in a cool, d
Edible Parts
Fruit
Seed
Sap
Tags
Keystone Specie
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Fire Wood
Building Wood
Windbreak
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Visual Appeal
High Protein
Sweetener
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Carya ovata</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Eastern United States, Southern Canada
applicable geo region: North America
language used: en
Flowering:
middle
of May for 30 days
Harvest:
middle
of September for 60 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(4/5)
edible uses: The nuts of the Shagbark Hickory are edible and have a rich, buttery flavor. They can be eaten raw or roasted and are often used in baking and confections. The nuts are typically harvested in the fall and can be stored in a cool, dry place for several months. They are high in healthy fats and protein, making them a nutritious food source.
Medicinal Rating:
(2/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, the bark and leaves have been used in folk medicine for their anti-inflammatory properties. Hickory bark extracts have been used to treat rheumatism and muscle pain. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using hickory for medicinal purposes.
health concerns: Consumption of hickory nuts should be moderate due to their high fat content, which can be difficult to digest for some individuals.
other uses: The wood is prized for its strength and is used in making tools, furniture, and as high-quality firewood. The bark can be boiled to produce a syrup similar to maple syrup, offering a unique flavor profile.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Carya ovata
common names: Shagbark Hickory; Shellbark Hickory; Scalybar
family: Juglandaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Carya
Growing Conditions
area needed: 50.0 m
spacing: 10.0 m
growing difficulty: Medium
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / -30ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(4/10)
first harvest: 40 years
life span: 200 years
succession: Late
growth rate: Slow
max height: 30.0 m
max width: 15.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Monoecious
growth details: Shagbark Hickory thrives in well-drained, loamy soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include clover and elderberry, which benefit from the hickory's canopy. Common mistakes include planting in poorly drained soils and neglecting young trees' water needs. Harvest nuts in late fall when they naturally drop from the tree. Store in a cool, d
Potential Disturbances: Natural pest management includes encouraging beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Planting garlic or marigolds nearby can help repel hickory bark beetles. Neem oil can be used as an organic spray to manage pecan weevils and fungal diseases such as canker and leaf spot.
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