Bitternut Hickory, Swamp Hickory
Carya cordiformis

Description

Carya cordiformis, or bitternut hickory, is native to Ontario and ranges through eastern North America, specifically from southwestern New Hampshire and southern Quebec, west to southern Ontario, central Michigan, and northern Minnesota, and south to eastern Texas and northern Florida. It prefers well-drained, moist soils and does well in full sun to part shade, but has demonstrated good drought tolerance in the summer. This magnificent tree reaches 50 to 80 feet, offering a broad, columnar shape and irregular crown. Thriving in a variety of habitats, from moist valleys to dry uplands, this resilient tree is free from major pest or disease issues. Known for its impressive shade canopy, it tolerates occasional flooding and salt spray. Though moderately messy in fall due to fallen nuts that are bitter and inedible as well as its leaf drop, its benefits make it a valuable addition to any landscape. Currently limited availability in the landscape, but with proper seed collection can become more available.
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Planting Site and Native Range

Planting Site
Naturalization, Parks, Highway, Residential, Wide Median

Management Notes

Management Notes
Fruit litter may be an issue

Tree Characteristics

Growth Rate
Slow (less than 30cm per year)
Width
12 - 15m
Height
15 - 23m
Soil Quantity
>30 m
Leaves
Deciduous

Insects and Diseases

Insects and Diseases
No serious or common issues in the urban environment. During drought Hickory bark beetle can be a problem for stressed trees.

Tree Tolerances

Soil Salt Tolerance
Unknown
Salt Spray Tolerance
Unknown
Flooding Tolerance
Low
Drought Tolerance
Very High
pH Tolerance
Tolerant of acid to alkaline soil (5.0 to 8.0)
Shade Tolerance
Full Sun Part Shade
Plant Hardiness Zone
Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
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