Nutmeg Hickory

Carya myristiciformis

Physical Characteristics

Carya myristiciformis is a deciduous Tree growing to 30 m (98ft 5in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in leaf from June to October, in flower from April to May. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Wind. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

South-eastern N. America.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Edible Uses: Seed - raw or cooked[105, 177, 183]. Sweet, but with a thick shell[1, 229]. The seed is up to 3cm in diameter[229]. The seed ripens in late autumn and, when stored in its shell in a cool place, will keep for at least 6 months[K].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known