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Water Hickory

Carya aquatica

Last reviewed: June 2026

Water Hickory (Carya aquatica)
Photo: Robert H. Mohlenbrock. USDA SCS. Southern wetland flora: Field office guide to plant species. / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

part sun

Water

high

Size

360"–720" H × 240"–480" W

Bloom

Apr, May

Native to

TN

Browse plants for this ecoregion

East Central Texas PlainsWestern Gulf Coastal PlainSouth Central Plains

Water hickory is a large native tree that naturally grows in wetlands and floodplains. It produces distinctive compound leaves and small nuts, thriving in consistently moist to wet soils where other trees struggle.

In an HOA neighborhood

Water Hickory takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Extremely large mature size unsuitable for most residential lots
  • Requires consistently wet conditions that may cause drainage concerns
  • Drops nuts and debris that require regular cleanup

Wildlife value

This tree supports over 200 species of moths and butterflies as a host plant, while its nuts provide food for squirrels, waterfowl, and other wildlife.

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 Water Hickory fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.

See it in the app

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