Carya ovata (F)
shagbark hickory
A broadly conical, deciduous tree to 20m tall, with ornamental, peeling grey to brown bark. The large leaves usually have five leaflets and turn golden yellow in autumn. Flowers in spring with the male catkins up to 12cm long. Thick-shelled nuts up to 6cm long are edible when ripe
Synonyms
Carya alba Nutt.
Buy this plant
Size
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metresTime to ultimate height
20–50 yearsUltimate spread
Wider than 8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Brown Grey Silver | Green Yellow | Green | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Brown Grey Silver | Green Yellow | Green | Green |
| Autumn | Brown Grey Silver | Yellow | Green | |
| Winter | Brown Grey Silver |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Juglandaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Carya are vigorous deciduous trees of handsome appearance, the large pinnate leaves colouring well in the autumn; male flowers are in catkins, females are insignificant spikes, followed by nuts, the kernels of some being edible
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- E North America
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in deep, fertile, humus rich, moist but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in situ as soon as ripe; seedlings rapidly develop a deep tap root and resent transplanting
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Low Maintenance
Pruning
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Prone to crown gall, powdery mildews and leaf spot (see leaf damage on woody plants)
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.