TD Tree BeeForests Canada

T. Davis Sydnor, The Ohio State University, Bugwood.org

T. Davis Sydnor, The Ohio State University, Bugwood.org

Rebekah D. Wallace, University of Georgia, Bugwood.org

Rebekah D. Wallace, University of Georgia, Bugwood.org

Franklin Bonner, USFS (ret.), Bugwood.org

Pignut Hickory

Carya glabra • smooth-bark hickory

Native

Pignut hickory is a large tree with a narrow crown, it typically grows 15-20 meters tall. It is native to nearly all of United States and is found in southern Ontario, although it's range is very limited. It prefers well-drained, acidic soil and full sun or part shade. It is quite drought-tolerant, and will grow well in sand or clay sites. The nuts of pignut hickory are very bitter and are often a last resort for many wildlife.

Leaf

Deciduous, alternate, compound. 15-30 cm long with 5-7 leaflets. Dark green above and paler beneath, hairless. Largest leaves at end.

Fruit/Seed

Yellowish-brown, pear-shaped, aromatic nuts. 4-ridged husks that splits into 4.

Bark

Young bark grey with pale crisscross markings. Mature bark rough with rounded ridges.

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158Species

Pignut Hickory | Tree Bee