Shagbark Hickory
Carya ovata · Juglandaceae (Walnut family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Compound (pinnately compound, typically with 5 leaflets), deciduous
Shape
Elliptical to obovate leaflets with acute tips and cuneate bases
Margin
Finely serrate to finely toothed with ciliations along the edge
Arrangement
Alternate on the twigs
Venation
Pinnate venation with prominent raised midribs and secondary veins forming a distinct net-like (reticulate) pattern
Key Features
Distinctive peeling shaggy bark, pinnately compound leaves typically featuring 5 (rarely 7) leaflets with the terminal leaflets being the largest, and hard-shelled sweet nuts inside a four-valved husk
Description
A magnificent large deciduous tree recognized immediately by its unique shaggy bark that peels away in long, vertical plates.
Habitat
Found in rich upland forests, wooded slopes, along streams, and ridge tops; prefers deep, moist, well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade
Native Range
Native to eastern North America, spanning from southern Quebec and Ontario south to Georgia and Texas, extending westward to Nebraska and Minnesota