Shagbark hickory
Carya ovata
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Pl. 2151 — Carya ovata
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IOverview
Overview
The Shagbark hickory is a perennial tree native to Eastern North America, with a range that extends into parts of Mexico and Canada. It is known for its edible parts, including sap, seeds, and milk. This tree is a member of the hickory family and is recognized by its distinctive shaggy bark. The Shagbark hickory thrives in a variety of conditions, including full sun and dry to moist soils, and can grow to a considerable height. Its ability to tolerate different soil types, from sandy to clay, makes it a versatile species. With a hardiness range of 4-8, it is well-suited to a variety of environments, making it a notable species in its native range.
Quick answers
What is Shagbark hickory?
The Shagbark hickory is a perennial tree native to Eastern North America, with a range that extends into parts of Mexico and Canada. It is known for its edible parts, including sap, seeds, and milk. This tree is a member of the hickory family and is recognized by its distinctive shaggy bark.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate a range of soil types, from light and sandy to heavy clay. It can grow in dry to moist conditions, making it a versatile option for gardeners. Hardy in temperate regions, specifically in zones 4-8, it is a perennial that can reach great heights. To propagate, gardeners can use its edible parts, such as seeds, though the specific method is not detailed. With proper care, it can provide edible sap, seeds, and milk, making it a valuable addition to a garden.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
30.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Shagbark hickory for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, low-maintenance tree that will thrive in your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Shagbark hickory saplings or seeds, potting mix if container planting.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining soil with pH between 6.0-7.5; ensure containers are at least 1 meter wide.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Plant seeds 2 inches deep in spring, or transplant saplings any time from early spring to late fall.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged; avoid direct sunlight for the first week.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and regular watering, especially during dry spells. Fertilize sparingly in spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune young trees to establish a strong structure; harvest seeds when ripe, usually late fall.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting proper pruning, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:SapSeedMilk
Edible uses: The sap, seed, and milk of this plant are edible. These parts can be consumed, although specific preparation methods are not provided. They may be eaten raw, cooked, or possibly dried, but without further information, typical preparation techniques are unknown.
Other uses:DyeFire starterLumberDynamic accumulatorFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 30 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Tennessee, Massachusetts, Masachusettes, Mexico Central, Wisconsin, Mexico Northeast, Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Southwest, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 2151837a-eecf-4b21-a4c0-f98cc4ea6510
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