Bitternut Hickory
Carya cordiformis · Juglandaceae (Walnut family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Compound (pinnately compound with typically 7-9 leaflets), deciduous
Shape
Lanceolate to oblong-lanceolate leaflets with tapering, pointed tips
Margin
Finely serrate (toothed) along the edges
Arrangement
Alternate on the twig, with pinnately compound leaves
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent midrib and distinct lateral veins
Key Features
Distinguished from other hickories by its sulfur-yellow, granular winter buds, slender twigs, and compound leaves featuring 7 to 9 relatively narrow leaflets with finely serrated margins. The nuts are also distinctively bitter and possess a thin husk with winged ridges.
Description
Carya cordiformis, commonly known as the Bitternut Hickory, is a large deciduous tree reaching heights of 60 to 100 feet. It features a straight trunk with a rounded to irregular crown, greyish bark that remains relatively smooth longer than other hickories, and distinctive, sulfur-yellow winter buds. The foliage consists of alternate, pinnately compound leaves that turn a striking golden yellow in autumn before dropping.
Habitat
Typically found in moist bottomland forests, along streams, and occasionally on rich upland soils; prefers well-drained to moist soils and full sun to partial shade
Native Range
Native to eastern North America, ranging from southern Quebec and Ontario west to Minnesota, south to eastern Texas, and east to northern Florida