Bitternut
Carya cordiformis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Bitternut (Carya cordiformis) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
600"–900" H × 300"–600" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 31 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Bitternut is a large native hickory tree that develops a distinctive oval crown and attractive yellow-bronze fall color. This long-lived shade tree produces small nuts that are bitter to humans but valued by wildlife.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bitternut is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone, backyard only.
- Drops nuts and small branches seasonally
- Very large mature size may not suit smaller properties
Wildlife value
Host plant for luna moth, banded peacock moth, walnut sphinx moth.
The flowers attract bees and beetles in late spring, while the nuts feed squirrels, chipmunks, and various bird species. The large canopy provides nesting sites and shelter for many wildlife species.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Bitternut fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.