CARYA LACINIOSA / SHELLBARK HICKORY

CARYA LACINIOSA / SHELLBARK HICKORY

A Majestic Native Tree with Nut-Bearing Value and Seasonal Interest

Carya laciniosa, commonly known as Shellbark Hickory, is a native deciduous tree admired for its tall, straight trunk, large pinnate green leaves, and edible nuts. Thriving in full sun with well-drained soils, Shellbark Hickory adds height, structure, and ecological benefits to woodlands, large landscapes, and naturalized plantings. Its textured bark and golden fall foliage enhance seasonal interest while providing food and habitat for wildlife.

Why Choose Shellbark Hickory?

Native & Wildlife Friendly: Nuts provide food for birds, squirrels, and other wildlife.
Ornamental Foliage: Large pinnate leaves turn golden yellow in fall.
Tall & Majestic: Upright form adds grandeur to naturalized and woodland landscapes.
Low Maintenance: Long-lived, resilient, and adaptable once established.

Key Features:

Foliage Color: Green pinnate leaves turning golden yellow in fall.
Bark Color: Gray-brown, deeply furrowed and textured.
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.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 4–8.
Flowering: Inconspicuous catkins in spring; primarily valued for foliage and nuts.
Fall Interest: Golden yellow leaves and textured bark.

Ideal Uses:

Woodland & Naturalized Landscapes: Perfect for forests, parks, and large native gardens.
Specimen Plantings: Makes a striking focal point in spacious landscapes.
Wildlife Gardens: Provides edible nuts for birds, squirrels, and other wildlife.
Low-Maintenance Landscapes: Hardy, long-lived, and resilient once established.

Shellbark Hickory is a stately and ecologically important native tree. Its towering form, edible nuts, and golden fall foliage make it a standout choice for naturalized landscapes, woodlands, and large ornamental gardens.