Bitternut Hickory
Carya cordiformis · Deciduous hardwood
Plant Family
Juglandaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree / Forest Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Species type (wild type, no specific cultivar identified)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 9.
About This Tree
A large deciduous tree featuring a straight trunk, an upright to spreading crown with a rounded outline, and dense foliage. Known for its distinctively bright yellow winter buds and bitter nuts.
Leaf Characteristics
Alternate, pinnately compound leaves typically 6 to 12 inches long with 7 to 9 (occasionally 5) leaflets. Leaflets are lanceolate to oblong-lanceolate with serrate margins, finely hairy beneath when young, and turn bright yellow in autumn.
Bark Characteristics
Light gray bark that remains relatively smooth and tight for a long time on young trees, developing shallow furrows and narrow, interconnected ridges with age, but lacking the shaggy plates characteristic of some other hickories.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to eastern North America, ranging from southern Quebec and Ontario south to Florida and west to Texas and Nebraska.
Growing Season
Leafs out in late spring after the last frost, produces flowers and nuts through the summer and early fall, and enters dormancy in late autumn with yellow fall foliage. Best planted in early spring or autumn.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Prefers moist, well-drained soils but exhibits moderate drought tolerance once established.
Mature Size
Reaches a mature height of 50 to 80 feet with a spread of 40 to 60 feet. Growth rate is slow to moderate. Lifespan can exceed 200 years.
Special Characteristics
Possesses strong, hard wood historically used for tools and fuel. Displays attractive golden-yellow fall color and good resistance to many common pests and diseases.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides crucial food and habitat for various wildlife species, including squirrels, chipmunks, and birds that consume the nuts. The leaves serve as a food source for caterpillars and other pollinators.