CARYA OVATA / SHAGBARK HICKORY

CARYA OVATA / SHAGBARK HICKORY

A Majestic Native Tree with Distinctive Bark and Nut-Bearing Value

Carya ovata, commonly known as Shagbark Hickory, is a native deciduous tree celebrated for its tall, straight trunk, pinnate green leaves, and uniquely shaggy, peeling bark. Thriving in full sun with well-drained soils, Shagbark Hickory adds structure, height, and ecological benefits to woodlands, naturalized landscapes, and large gardens. Its edible nuts and brilliant fall foliage provide both wildlife value and seasonal beauty.

Why Choose Shagbark Hickory?

Native & Wildlife Friendly: Nuts provide food for birds, squirrels, and other wildlife.
Ornamental Bark: Shaggy, peeling bark adds winter interest and textural appeal.
Seasonal Foliage: Pinnate leaves turn golden yellow in fall.
Low Maintenance: Long-lived, hardy, and resilient once established.

Key Features:

Foliage Color: Green pinnate leaves turning golden yellow in fall.
Bark Color: Gray-brown, peeling in long, vertical strips.
Height and Spread: Typically grows 60–80 feet tall and 40–60 feet wide.
Hardiness: Hardy to USDA Zones 4–8.
Sunlight: Prefers full sun.
Soil Requirements: Well-drained soils; tolerates loam, sandy, and clay soils.

Specifications:

Plant Size: 60–80 feet tall, 40–60 feet wide.
Growth Habit: Upright, straight-trunked deciduous tree with layered branching.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 4–8.
Flowering: Inconspicuous catkins in spring; primarily valued for foliage, bark, and nuts.
Fall Interest: Golden yellow leaves and distinctive shaggy bark.

Ideal Uses:

Woodland & Naturalized Landscapes: Perfect for large forests, parks, and native plantings.
Specimen Plantings: Makes a striking focal point in spacious gardens.
Wildlife Gardens: Provides edible nuts and shelter for birds, squirrels, and small mammals.
Low-Maintenance Landscapes: Long-lived, hardy, and resilient once established.

Shagbark Hickory is a stately and ecologically valuable native tree. Its iconic shaggy bark, edible nuts, and golden fall foliage make it a standout choice for woodlands, naturalized landscapes, and large ornamental gardens.