Shagbark Hickory
 

Mature Size, Growth, Longevity

Average mature size of 75-100' tall and 35-50' wide. Slow growth rate, about 6" per year. Long lived, many survive 250 years.

Native Range

Cultivated in 1629. Native from Quebec to Minnesota, south to Georgia and Texas.

Flower and Fruit Details

Flowers are yellow-green pendulous catkins, 3-4" long, occurring mid-May. Fruits are a globular nut, encased by a thick 4-sectioned husk. Seed is edible and quite sweet, maturing early September to mid October.

Leaf and Bark Features

Rich yellow or golden brown fall color. Bark is gray to brown and breaks up in thin plates which are free at the end and attached at the middle.

Culture and Care

Deep taproot makes transplanting a challenge. Best in rich, well-drained loams, but adaptable to wide range of soils. Not flood tolerant. No serious disease or insect problems.

Strengths, Weaknesses, Other Facts

When leaves are bruised or crushed they have the faint aroma of apples.

Taxa and Plants of this Species at BCA