Shagbark Hickory—Carya ovata

Large | Deciduous | Height: 70-90 feet | Spread: 50-70 feet

The shagbark hickory prefers a humid climate but is found in a wide range of conditions. This plant prefers moist acidic soils. 

Male and female flowers occur in the spring and give way to edible nuts. This hickory begins to bear seeds around 10 years but is most productive from 40 to 200 years old. The production is erratic with the best crops being every 3-5 years.

Small mammals, squirrels, raccoons, chipmunks and others, are attracted to the nuts. Occasionally, a silver haired bat will find shelter under the bark. This plant serves as a food source for the hickory horndevil moth (Citheronia regalis).

More information on the characteristics and cultivation of this species can be found at https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/carya-ovata-var-australis/