False Shagbark
Carya ovalis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
360"–720" H × 240"–480" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
RI
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Sweet Pignut Hickory is a large native deciduous tree that develops an oval to rounded crown at maturity. It produces small yellowish-green flowers in late spring followed by edible nuts in fall, with leaves turning golden yellow in autumn.
In an HOA neighborhood
False Shagbark is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, street edge, mid zone.
- Drops nuts and leaves in fall requiring cleanup
- Very large mature size may overwhelm smaller properties
Wildlife value
This tree supports bees and beetles during its spring bloom period. The nuts provide food for squirrels, chipmunks, and various bird species throughout fall and winter.
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 False Shagbark fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.