tree

Shagbark hickory

Carya ovata

Updated 4 Aug 2026 · AI-parsed entry

Shagbark hickory (Carya ovata) — a tree, for Full sun, Medium water. Companions: Black walnut.

What it needs & gives back

↓ Needs

Lightfull sun to partial shade
Watermedium to high

↑ Gives back

Mulch_biomasshigh
Shadesignificant
Fruitedible

Companions

Through the year

Through the year

JFMAMJJASOND
emergenceBud break and leaf emergence typically occur after the last spring frost and when air temperatures consistently rise above 10°C.
floweringFlowering occurs shortly after leaf emergence, usually within two weeks.
fruitingFruit development begins after flowering and continues through summer, with nuts maturing in early autumn.
harvestNuts are typically ready for harvest from late September through October as they fall from the tree.
senescenceLeaves begin to change color and drop after the first autumn frost and as day length shortens.
dormancyThe tree enters dormancy after leaf drop, triggered by the first autumn frost and decreasing photoperiod.

Soil interactions

Drainagewell-drained
Nitrogen fixingNo
MycorrhizalYes
Accumulatescalcium, potassium
Soil textureloam, sandy_loam, clay_loam
Organic matterHigh
Compaction toleranceLow

Propagation

Methodsseed, grafting
Difficulty3 / 5
Establishes in~5 yr
Stratificationcold_moist_stratification_90-120_days
Self-seedingModerate

Wildlife & pests

Attractssquirrels, birds, wildlife (for nuts)
Can host pestshickory bark beetle, fall webworm
Can host diseaseshickory anthracnose, powdery mildew