NCCSP

Mature Height:

The Shellbark Hickory grows to be 60' - 80' feet in height.

Mature Spread:

The Shellbark Hickory has a spread of about 40' at full maturity.

Growth Rate:

This tree grows at a slow growth rate.

Sun:

This hickory does well in full sun.

Soil:

The Shellbark Hickory grows in acidic, alkaline, drought tolerant, loamy, moist, rich, sandy, wet, clay soils.

Shape:

This hickory has oval, rounded shape.

Leaves:

Pinnately compound, 5-9 leaflets, 10"-24" long, dark yellow-green on top.

Flower Color:

Greenish

Bloom Time:

Spring.

Fruit Description:

Large, oval, 1/4" thick husk covers a hard, light brown shell, 1 3/4"-2 1/2" with 4-6 "ribs." The large kernel is sweet. Harvest in fall.

Attributes:

A native of moist bottomlands and floodplains of the United States, the shellbark hickory's wood is hard and strong, and its nut is prized for its sweetness. It is a sturdy tree with a life span of 80 or more years. The large nut is a wildlife favorite.

Description:

An attractive, high-branching tree. Large brown sweet nuts. Likes moist soil. Grows 60' to 80', 40' spread.

Wildlife Value:

The leaves of the Shellbark Hickory are eaten by deer and other browsers while the nuts are consumed by deer, bear, foxes, rabbits, squirrels, chipmunks, wild turkey, and wood ducks.