Hickory, Shagbark, Bare Root

Shagbark Hickory (Carya ovata)

A long-lived canopy tree for nut groves and woodland restoration. Sweet kernels and shaggy mature bark are later rewards from a tree that needs a permanent site from the start.

Key Characteristics

A nut tree with host foliage

Luna moth, hickory horned devil, and banded hairstreak larvae use hickory leaves. The canopy serves insects before the tree reaches substantial nut production.

Plant for a future harvest

Seedling nut quality and time to bearing vary, and a crop may take many years. Plant several genetically distinct shagbarks with overlapping flowering for better pollination.

Protect the deep root system

Handle bare roots gently and plant in the permanent position promptly. Deep, well-drained soil is more suitable than a compacted pocket beside pavement.

Product Details

• Native range: Eastern and central North America
• Life cycle: Deciduous woody perennial tree
• Sun: Full Sun; Part Sun/Shade
• Soil moisture: Medium-Dry; Medium
• Mature height: 70–90 feet; varies with seedling and site
• Bloom time: April–May
• Bloom color: Green, Yellow
• USDA hardiness zones: 4–8
• Fruit or seed: Sweet edible kernels inside hard shells; seedling nut quality and bearing age vary.
• Pollination: Wind-pollinated; plant multiple genetically distinct shagbarks with overlapping flowering for a better crop.

Planting and Ongoing Care

Keep bare roots moist until planting and spread roots without bending them into a tight hole. Water during establishment, mulch clear of the trunk, and protect young trees from browsing and mowing damage. Base feeding on a soil test; our Tree Planting Kit fertilizer blend can be used according to its label when needed.

Inspect nut pests and twig damage as trees mature. Maintain vigor and protect seedlings from browsing. Avoid insecticides on open flowers. These are seedlings rather than selected clones, so growth, flowering, and fruiting vary.