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Description
Carya Alba, commonly known as the Mockernut Hickory, is a deciduous tree native to eastern North America. It belongs to the genus Carya, which includes other hickory and pecan species. The tree can reach up to 100 feet in height and has a broad, rounded crown. The bark is gray and has deep furrows and ridges. The leaves are alternate, pinnately compound, and can reach up to 14 inches in length. The fruit is a large, round nut enclosed in a thick, hard shell.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Juglandaceae |
| Genus | Carya |
Appearance
The Mockernut Hickory has a distinctive appearance with a broad, rounded crown and deeply furrowed bark. The leaves are pinnately compound, meaning they have multiple leaflets attached to a central stem. The leaflets are dark green and can reach up to 14 inches in length. In the fall, the leaves turn a beautiful golden yellow color. The fruit is a large, round nut that can reach up to 2 inches in diameter. The nut is enclosed in a thick, hard shell that is difficult to crack.
Care Guide
To care for a Mockernut Hickory, it is important to provide it with the right conditions. The tree prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a range of soil types but does best in loamy soils. The tree should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilization is not usually necessary, but a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring. The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. It is hardy in zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Mockernut Hickory is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to some common issues. The most common pests include the hickory shuckworm and the pecan weevil. These pests can damage the fruit and reduce yields. Diseases that can affect the tree include powdery mildew, leaf spot, and canker. These diseases can cause leaf drop and reduced growth.
Habitat
The Mockernut Hickory is native to the eastern United States and can be found growing in a variety of habitats. It prefers well-drained soils and is often found in upland forests. The tree is also found in bottomland forests, along streams and rivers, and in savannas. It is an important species for wildlife, providing food and habitat for a variety of animals.
Questions and Answers
Q: How long does it take for a Mockernut Hickory to produce fruit?
A: It can take up to 10 years for a Mockernut Hickory to produce its first crop of nuts.
Q: Can the nuts of a Mockernut Hickory be eaten?
A: Yes, the nuts are edible, but they are very hard to crack and have a bitter taste compared to other hickory species.
Q: How often should a Mockernut Hickory be fertilized?
A: Fertilization is not usually necessary, but a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring if desired.
Q: What is the best way to control the hickory shuckworm?
A: The best way to control the hickory shuckworm is to remove and destroy any infested fruit and to use insecticides if necessary.
Related Plants
Other species in the genus Carya include:
- Carya illinoinensis (Pecan)
- Carya ovata (Shagbark Hickory)
- Carya tomentosa (Mockernut Hickory)
- Carya glabra (Pignut Hickory)
References
- Dirr, M. A. (1998). Manual of woody landscape plants: Their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Champaign, IL: Stipes Pub.
- USDA Plants Database, Carya tomentosa (Poir.) Nutt. Mockernut hickory. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CATO4
- Missouri Botanical Garden, Carya tomentosa. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c925
