Shagbark Hickory
Carya ovata
Last reviewed: July 2026
Shagbark Hickory is a native deciduous tree found throughout eastern North America, blooming in May and June. This drought-tolerant species supports bees and beetles while producing distinctive shaggy bark and edible nuts.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Shagbark Hickory as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
600"–1200" H × 300"–600" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 30 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Shagbark hickory is a large native shade tree known for its distinctive peeling bark that creates dramatic gray plates on mature trunks. This slow-growing tree produces edible nuts and develops brilliant golden-yellow fall color, making it an excellent long-term landscape investment.
Growing Shagbark Hickory
Grow Shagbark Hickory in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 600 to 1200 inches tall and spread 300 to 600 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Shagbark Hickory is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone.
- Drops nuts and twigs seasonally
- Very slow growth means long payback period
Wildlife value
Host plant for Luna moth, Hickory tussock moth, Banded hairstreak butterfly.
The tree supports over 200 species of butterflies and moths as caterpillar host, while also providing nuts for squirrels, chipmunks, and birds. Spring flowers attract bees and beetles for pollination.
Common questions
- Where does Shagbark Hickory naturally grow?
- Shagbark Hickory is native to much of eastern North America, from Maine to Georgia and west to Minnesota, Kansas, and eastern Texas.
- When does Shagbark Hickory bloom?
- Shagbark Hickory produces flowers in May and June, with male catkins appearing before the leaves fully emerge.
- What pollinators visit Shagbark Hickory?
- Bees and beetles are the primary pollinators of Shagbark Hickory flowers, attracted to the tree's wind-pollinated catkins.
- What growing conditions does Shagbark Hickory prefer?
- Shagbark Hickory grows best in full sun but tolerates partial sun, and adapts to various moisture levels from wet to dry soils.
- Is Shagbark Hickory toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Shagbark Hickory as toxic to livestock.
- Is Shagbark Hickory HOA-friendly?
- Shagbark Hickory is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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.
Ready to grow Shagbark 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