Shagbark Hickory
Quick Overview
Shagbark Hickory is named for its gray shaggy peeling bark. This interesting characteristic gives interest and texture to the landscape throughout all seasons. In fall its medium green leaves will change to a golden brown color and its edible nut ripens. Many birds, and wildlife call this tree home and its nut is a prime food source in winter months. When burned, its wood gives off a fragrant smoke and is often harvested for smoking and curing meat. Shagbark Hickory is a Chicagoland native and will grow to be quite large. Plant this tree where it will have ample room to grow and flourish.
Details
Quick Overview
Why it rocks:
Shagbark Hickory is a member of the Walnut family and is named for its flaky, gray shaggy bark. This Chicagoland native has medium-green leaves that change to golden brown in autumn. Its nut is loved by humans and wildlife alike and ripens in the fall. Its interesting shedding bark, and large size offer year-round interest in the landscape.Where to put it:
Shagbark Hickory grows to be a very large shade tree and should be planted where it will have room to grow and its shade and beauty can be admired. Plant this tree in open areas of the yard, in parks, or along the parkway. Shagbark Hickory should be planted at least 20 ft from buildings.What it needs:
Shagbark Hickory prefers full to part sun and moist well-drained soils. This tree is very tolerant of a variety of site conditions and is tolerant of some drought and flooding. Be sure to follow our tree care instructions for the first few growing seasons until the root system is well-established.Specs
Botanical Name | Carya ovata |
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Hardiness Zone | 4 |
Tree Type | Shade |
Size Range | Large Tree (more than 40 feet) |
Mature Height | 60-80' |
Mature Spread | 30-50' |
Shape | Upright Spreading/Arching, Oval |
Foliage Color | Medium Green |
Fall Color | Yellow/Gold, Brown/Copper |
Flower Color | N/A |
Decorative Fruit | Edible Rounded Nut |
Landscape Uses | Shade, Parkway/Street |
Growth Rate | Slow |
Plant Tolerance | Very Tolerant & Adaptable |
Standout Feature | Shaggy bark, Native, Large dense shade tree, Edible nut |