Shagbark Hickory
Carya ovata · Upland HickoryUSDA | Grow Zone
4-8Outdoors all year in zones 4 to 8. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant.
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Deeply but infrequently
- Humidity
- Moderate humidity
- Temperature
- 60-80°F (15-27°C)
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 50-75 ft tall
Carya ovata, commonly known as Shagbark Hickory, is a majestic tree native to North America, valued for its distinctive shaggy bark and edible nuts. This tree is a great choice for providing shade and attracting wildlife, making it a popular addition to landscapes.
Ask Vesper about Shagbark Hickory
Ideal temperature
60-80°F is where it grows fastest.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 50-75 ft tall
- Plant apart
- 30-50 in
- Frost
- Hardy: survives frost
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Carya ovata prefers well-drained soil and should be watered deeply but infrequently.
Water young trees every 1-2 weeks during dry spells, while mature trees can rely on natural rainfall. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, whereas under-watering may cause leaf wilting and premature leaf drop.
Light
This tree thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Ideal placement is in an open area with good air circulation. It can tolerate partial shade but may not produce as many nuts in lower light conditions.
Soil
Carya ovata prefers sandy loam to clay loam soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot, so avoid heavy clay soils. A recommended potting mix for young trees includes a blend of compost, peat, and perlite.
Humidity
This tree is adaptable to various humidity levels but prefers moderate humidity.
To increase humidity, consider misting young trees or placing a humidifier nearby. Signs of humidity stress include leaf curling and browning edges.
Temperature
Carya ovata thrives in temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 27 degrees Celsius).
It is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8, tolerating cold down to -30 degrees Fahrenheit (-34 degrees Celsius) and heat up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius).
Fertilizing
Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 during the growing season, applying it once in early spring and again in mid-summer.
Signs of nutrient deficiency include stunted growth and yellowing leaves, indicating a need for additional nutrients.
Pruning
Prune Carya ovata in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Use sharp, clean tools to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the tree. Avoid heavy pruning as it can stress the tree, and deadheading is not necessary.
Repotting
Repot young trees every 2-3 years or when they outgrow their containers.
Signs that repotting is needed include roots growing out of the drainage holes and stunted growth. When repotting, choose a pot 1-2 inches larger in diameter and use fresh potting mix.
Propagation
Propagation is typically done through seeds or grafting.
For seeds, collect them in the fall, clean, and stratify for 90 days in a moist medium at 34 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit (1 to 5 degrees Celsius) before planting in spring. Grafting should be done in early spring when the sap begins to flow.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
This can be caused by over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Check soil moisture levels and adjust watering accordingly. Fertilize if nutrient deficiency is suspected.
Root rot
Why it happens
Excessive moisture and poor drainage can lead to root rot.
How to fix it
Ensure proper drainage and reduce watering frequency. Remove affected roots and repot in fresh soil if necessary.
Leaf wilting
Why it happens
Under-watering or extreme heat can cause leaves to wilt.
How to fix it
Increase watering frequency during hot weather and ensure the tree is not in a drought-stressed environment.
Bark splitting
Why it happens
Rapid temperature changes or excessive moisture can cause bark splitting.
How to fix it
Maintain consistent watering and protect the tree from extreme temperature fluctuations.
Pests (e.g., aphids)
Why it happens
Aphids can infest young leaves, sucking sap and causing damage.
How to fix it
Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat infestations and encourage beneficial insects.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, focus on fertilizing and watering as new growth begins. Monitor for pests and prune any dead or damaged branches.
Summer
During summer, ensure consistent watering, especially during dry spells. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Fall
In fall, prepare for leaf drop and consider raking leaves to prevent fungal issues. This is also a good time to assess the tree's health and plan for winter care.
Winter
In winter, protect young trees from extreme cold and wind. Avoid heavy pruning during this time and check for any signs of damage from cold weather.
Toxicity & Safety
Carya ovata is non-toxic to pets and children. However, the nuts can pose a choking hazard for small children. Symptoms of ingestion may include stomach upset if consumed in large quantities.
Good to know
Why are my Carya ovata leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves on Carya ovata can indicate over-watering or a nutrient deficiency. Check the soil moisture and consider fertilizing if necessary.
How often should I water my Shagbark Hickory?
Water young Shagbark Hickory trees every 1-2 weeks during dry spells, ensuring deep watering to encourage strong root development.
What type of soil is best for Carya ovata?
Carya ovata prefers sandy loam to clay loam soils with good drainage and a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 for optimal growth.
When is the best time to prune Carya ovata?
Prune Carya ovata in late winter or early spring before new growth begins to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
How can I propagate Carya ovata?
Carya ovata can be propagated through seeds or grafting. For seeds, collect and stratify them for 90 days before planting in spring.
What pests should I watch for on my Shagbark Hickory?
Watch for pests like aphids and caterpillars that can damage leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
What is the mature size of Carya ovata?
Carya ovata typically reaches a mature height of 50-75 feet and a width of 30-50 feet, making it a large shade tree.
Track this plant in your garden.
Set care reminders, log growth, and join a community of plant lovers.