Hickory, ShellbarkCarya laciniosa
An attractive, high-branching tree. Large brown sweet nuts. Likes moist soil. Grows 60' to 80', 40' spread. (Self-pollinating) (zones 5-8)
Zones 5 - 8
The Shellbark Hickory can be expected to grow in the zones shown in color in the arborday.org zone map. (see map below)
Nut Tree
The Shellbark Hickory falls into the following type(s): Nut Trees
60' - 80' High
The Shellbark Hickory grows to be 60' - 80' feet in height.
40' Spread
The Shellbark Hickory has a spread of about 40' at full maturity.
Slow Growth
This tree grows at a slow growth rate. [More about this.]
Full Sun
This hickory does well in full sun.
Various Soils
The Shellbark Hickory grows in acidic, alkaline, drought tolerant, loamy, moist, rich, sandy, wet, clay soils.
Oval Shape
This hickory has oval, rounded shape.
More Info
The Shellbark Hickory can be expected to grow in the zones shown on this map.
Attributes:
A native of moist bottomlands and floodplains of the United States, the shellbark hickory's wood is hard and strong, and its nut is prized for its sweetness. It is a sturdy strong with a life span of 80 or more years. The large nut is a wildlife favorite.
Description:
The Shellbark Hickory is a high branching tree with a straight, slender trunk, and a narrow, oblong crown. It is sturdy, tree with shaggy bark. The nuts are large and sweet. The tree will bear nuts in 10-12 years and bears annually although generally not heavily. (Self-fertile) zones 5-8)
Wildlife Value:
The leaves of the Shellbark Hickory are eaten by deer and other browsers while the nuts are consumed by deer, bear, foxes, rabbits, squirrels, chipmunks, wild turkey, and other animals.
Leaves:
Pinnately compound, 5-9 leaflets, 10"-24" long, dark yellow-green on top.
Flower Color:
Greenish
Bloom Time:
Spring.
Fruit Description:
Large, oval, 1/4" thick husk covers a hard, light brown shell, 1 3/4"-2 1/2" with 4-6 "ribs." The large kernel is sweet. Harvest in fall.