Chinese Hickory
Carya cathayensis
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Pl. 171B — Carya cathayensis
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IOverview
Overview
Chinese Hickory, scientifically known as Carya cathayensis, is a deciduous tree native to the South-Central and Southeast regions of China. This hardy tree thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil that can range from light (sandy) to heavy (clay). It is adaptable to a wide range of climates within USDA Hardiness Zones 5-9, making it suitable for gardens across much of the United States. Known for its edible seeds, which are often used in various culinary applications, Chinese Hickory also serves as an ornamental tree due to its attractive form and fall foliage. One distinctive feature is its ability to grow up to 18 meters tall, while another notable characteristic is its light requirement, ensuring it performs best in full sun exposure.
Quick answers
What is Chinese Hickory?
Chinese Hickory, scientifically known as Carya cathayensis, is a deciduous tree native to the South-Central and Southeast regions of China. This hardy tree thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil that can range from light (sandy) to heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Chinese Hickory thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 5-9 and grows to a height of 18 meters. For propagation, seeds are the preferred method. Ensure the planting site offers ample space for its size at maturity.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Mature size
18.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Chinese Hickory for the first time
8steps
Start with a Chinese Hickory as a simple, low-maintenance tree for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Chinese Hickory sapling and some basic gardening tools like a spade and watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining, with a mix of light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) textures. For containers, use a potting mix suitable for trees.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant your sapling into a prepared hole that's twice as wide but the same depth as its root ball.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure and regular watering, especially during dry spells. Fertilize in early spring with a balanced tree fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune young trees to shape them properly. Harvest seeds when they are ripe, usually after the nuts have fallen from the tree.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in poorly draining soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:Fire starteroilLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 2 native
Asia1 region
native (1)China
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 171b4571-25ee-499e-9c46-6ce71fd51b18
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