Pignut Hickory (Carya glabra)

2 year old 10"-14" bareroot seedling

The Pignut Hickory (Carya glabra) presents itself as a dignified deciduous tree, native in the Eastern regions of the United States. In its natural habitat, it can ascend to impressive heights of up to 80 feet, showcasing short, picturesque branches and an expansive crown. It lends itself well to cultivation, serving admirably as a shade or street tree, and maintains its visual appeal throughout the year.

The tree's peculiar name, 'Pignut Hickory,' harks back to centuries past when hogs were observed feasting on its small yet nourishing nuts. Hardy in  zone 4, this species displays a preference for direct sunlight but exhibits a commendable tolerance for partial shade. While it necessitates well-drained, acidic soils for optimal growth, the Pignut Hickory is otherwise not overly demanding, thanks to its deep-rooted nature that enables it to adapt to both sandy and clay soils.

In terms of ecological contribution, the Pignut Hickory stands out. It acts as a host plant for an extensive array of butterflies and moths, including the majestic large luna moth. It provides both shelter and nourishment for additional caterpillar species. Beyond its support for insect life, the hickory nuts produced by the tree are sought after by a range of woodland creatures such as black bears, deer, squirrels, chipmunks, foxes, mice, and wood ducks. Although the nut meat has a bitter taste, it holds potential for oil extraction, a process that separates the bitter tannins from valuable oil and unveils the Pignut Hickory’s true offerings as a potential staple oil tree crop.