Nutmeg Hickory
Carya myristiciformis
Last reviewed: August 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Nutmeg Hickory as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
600"–900" H × 300"–600" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AL, AR, LA, MS and 4 more states
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 432 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
Find rebates in your areaBrowse plants for this ecoregion
Nutmeg hickory is a large native shade tree that can reach 50-75 feet tall with a broad, rounded canopy. This long-lived deciduous tree produces edible nuts and develops attractive fall color, making it valuable for larger landscapes where space allows.
In an HOA neighborhood
Nutmeg Hickory is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: backyard only, mid zone.
- Extremely large mature size limits placement options
- Nut drop can create maintenance issues
Wildlife value
The nuts provide important food for squirrels, chipmunks, and various bird species. The large canopy offers nesting sites and shelter for many wildlife species.
Common questions
- How much sun does Nutmeg Hickory need?
- Nutmeg Hickory grows best in full sun conditions.
- Where is Nutmeg Hickory native?
- Nutmeg Hickory (Carya myristiciformis) is native to AL, AR, LA, MS and 4 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
- Is Nutmeg Hickory toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Nutmeg Hickory as toxic to livestock.
- Is Nutmeg Hickory HOA-friendly?
- Nutmeg Hickory is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Nutmeg Hickory? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz