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Mockernut Hickory

Carya alba

Last reviewed: August 2026

Mockernut Hickory (Carya alba)
Photo: Unknown authorUnknown author / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

full sun

Water

medium

Size

600"–1200" H × 300"–600" W

Bloom

Apr, May

Native to

AL, AR, CT, DE and 31 more states

Pollinators

bees, moths

Before you buy

Your city may pay you to plant this

Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 437 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

Find rebates in your area

Browse plants for this ecoregion

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Mockernut hickory is a large native shade tree that can reach 50-100 feet tall with a broad, rounded crown. This long-lived deciduous tree produces small spring flowers followed by edible nuts in fall. It's valued for its strong wood and excellent shade coverage in spacious landscapes.

In an HOA neighborhood

Mockernut Hickory is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, street edge, mid zone.

  • Drops nuts and leaves seasonally
  • Requires significant space due to large mature size

Wildlife value

Host plant for luna moth, hickory tussock moth.

The spring flowers attract bees and moths for pollination. The nuts provide important food for squirrels, chipmunks, and various bird species.

Common questions

How much sun does Mockernut Hickory need?
Mockernut Hickory grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Mockernut Hickory bloom?
Mockernut Hickory blooms in April and May.
Where is Mockernut Hickory native?
Mockernut Hickory (Carya alba) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 31 more states, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
What butterflies or moths does Mockernut Hickory host?
Mockernut Hickory is a larval host plant for luna moth and hickory tussock moth.
Is Mockernut Hickory HOA-friendly?
Mockernut Hickory is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Mockernut Hickory? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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