Sweet Pignut

Carya ovalis

Physical Characteristics

Carya ovalis 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 6. 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

Eastern N. America - Massachusetts to Michigan, Virginia, Illinois, Georgia and Missouri.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Sap Seed Edible Uses: Seed - raw or cooked[1, 101, 105]. Small but sweet[11, 82] with a thin shell[159, 235]. The seed ripens in late autumn and, when stored in its shell in a cool place, will keep for at least 6 months[K]. Sap - raw. Tapped in the spring, it has a sweet flavour[101].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known