Shagbark Hickory

Carya ovata

Physical Characteristics

Carya ovata is a deciduous Tree growing to 30 m (98ft) by 15 m (49ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in leaf from June to October, in flower in June, and the seeds ripen from October to November. 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. It is noted for attracting wildlife. 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 dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Quebec to Ontario, south to Florida, Kansas and Texas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Sap Seed Edible Uses: Milk Seed - raw or cooked and used in pies, cakes, bread etc[2, 4, 61, 62, 183]. Sweet and delicious[1, 117, 183]. The seed can be ground into a meal and used to thicken soups etc[183]. A nut milk can be prepared from the seed and this is used as a butter on bread, vegetables etc[183]. The shell is normally thick and hard[101] but in selected cultivars it can be thin[159]. The seed ripens in late autumn and can be stored for up to 2 years in a cool cellar[117]. The seed is up to 4cm long[229]. Sap - sweet[257]. It is tapped in spring[101] and can be made into a syrup[226].

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Antirheumatic The fresh small shoots have been steamed to make an inhalant for treating headaches[257]. A decoction of the bark has been taken internally to treat rheumatism and also used as a poultice on rheumatic joints[257].

Known Hazards

None known