Water Hickory is a deciduous tree native to the southeastern United States, thriving in wetland areas such as swamps and riverbanks. It can reach heights of up to 30 meters, characterized by a slender trunk and compound leaves. In agroecology, Water Hickory plays a crucial role in riparian buffer zones, helping to prevent erosion and improve water quality. Its deep root system stabilizes soil in flood-prone areas, making it invaluable for ecosystem restoration. The tree supports biodiversity by providing habitat and food for various wildlife species, including birds and small mammals. Historically, the wood has been used for tool handles and furniture due to its strength. In a food forest system, Water Hickory serves as a canopy layer, offering shade and habitat for understory plants. It can be paired with other wetland species like Bald Cypress and Swamp Tupelo to create a diverse and resilient ecosystem.
Growing Details
Water Hickory thrives in wet, swampy areas and requires full sun for optimal growth. It is best propagated through seeds, which should be stratified in cold conditions before planting in moist, well-drained soil. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include Bald Cypress and Swamp Tupelo, which share similar water and soil requirements. Common mistakes include planting in dry areas and insufficient spacing, which can hinder growth. Harvest nuts in la
Edible Parts
Seed
Tags
Keystone Specie Carbon Farming Attracts Wildlife Fire Wood Building Wood Windbreak Erosion Preventing Visual Appeal
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Carya aquatica</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: Southeastern United States
applicable geo region: North America
language used: en
Flowering:
middle
of April for 30 days
Harvest:
middle
of September for 60 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(1/5)
edible uses: The nuts of Water Hickory are bitter due to high tannin content and are not commonly consumed by humans. However, they can be leached to remove tannins and used in small quantities. The nuts are a significant food source for wildlife, including squirrels and waterfowl.
Medicinal Rating:
(0/5)
medicinal uses:
health concerns: The nuts are bitter due to high tannin content and should not be consumed in large quantities without proper processing.
other uses: The wood of Water Hickory is valued for its hardness and strength, making it suitable for tool handles and furniture. It also serves as a source of firewood.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Carya aquatica
common names: Water Hickory; Bitter Pecan; Swamp Hickory
family: Juglandaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Carya
Growing Conditions
area needed: 100.0 m
spacing: 10.0 m
growing difficulty: High
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: High
humidity: High
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: Low
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(7/10)
first harvest: 10 years
life span: 200 years
succession: Late
growth rate: Slow
max height: 30.0 m
max width: 15.0 m
soil preference:
Heavy
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Monoecious
growth details: Water Hickory thrives in wet, swampy areas and requires full sun for optimal growth. It is best propagated through seeds, which should be stratified in cold conditions before planting in moist, well-drained soil. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include Bald Cypress and Swamp Tupelo, which share similar water and soil requirements. Common mistakes include planting in dry areas and insufficient spacing, which can hinder growth. Harvest nuts in la
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include hickory bark beetles and pecan weevils. Natural pest management strategies include introducing beneficial insects such as parasitic wasps to control weevils and lacewings for general pest control. Planting garlic or marigolds nearby can help repel certain pests. Neem oil can be used as an organic spray for pest management.
Growth Timeline
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