Shellbark Hickory (Carya laciniosa)

The Shellbark Hickory (Carya laciniosa) is a magnificent tree that produces large, sweet-tasting nuts highly valued for both human consumption and wildlife. With its deep roots and strong, upright growth, Shellbark Hickory plays an important role in stabilizing soils and enhancing biodiversity in agroforestry systems.

Our Shellbark Hickory trees are cultivated for optimal performance in low-input, ecological restoration systems. They enhance soil health, provide shade, and offer consistent nut production.

Plant Characteristics:

• Scientific Name: Carya laciniosa
• Size & Shape: Grows 60-80 feet tall with a spread of 40-60 feet; upright, oval crown with distinctive shaggy bark.
• Fruit Type: Large, thick-shelled nuts with a sweet, flavorful kernel, ripening in late fall.
• Flowering: Small, green catkins in late spring.
• Ecological Benefits: Deep roots help prevent erosion, improve soil health, and support water infiltration; hickories contribute to greater biodiversity by hosting a variety of beneficial insects and fungi.
• Wildlife Benefits: Nuts provide food for squirrels, deer, turkeys, and other wildlife; the large, strong branches offer excellent nesting sites for birds.

Growing Conditions:

• Sun Requirement: Prefers full sun to partial shade.
• Water Requirement: Moderate water needs, with good drought tolerance once established.
• Hardiness Zone: Zones 5-9.
• Soil Preference: Thrives in rich, well-drained soils, but can tolerate a range of soil conditions, including clay.

Photos by: Plant Image Libary