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Description
Carya Aquatica, commonly known as the Water Hickory Tree, is a deciduous tree native to the southeastern United States. It is a member of the Juglandaceae family and is closely related to other hickory trees such as the Pecan and Shagbark Hickory. The Water Hickory Tree is uniquely adapted to wet soils and is often found growing along rivers, swamps, and other water sources.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Juglandaceae |
| Genus | Carya |
Appearance
The Water Hickory Tree typically grows to be 50-80 feet tall with a spread of 30-50 feet. It has a straight trunk and a rounded crown. The bark is grayish-brown and has deep furrows and ridges. The leaves are pinnately compound and can be up to 12 inches long with 7-9 leaflets. The leaflets are lance-shaped and have serrated edges. In the fall, the leaves turn a beautiful yellow color.
Care Guide
The Water Hickory Tree is relatively easy to care for, but it does require some specific conditions to thrive. Here are some guidelines for caring for this unique tree:Water: The Water Hickory Tree requires regular watering, especially during its first few years of growth. It prefers moist soil but can tolerate periods of drought once it is established.Fertilization: The Water Hickory Tree does not require regular fertilization but can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer applied in the spring.Soil: The Water Hickory Tree prefers wet, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral soil.Sunlight: The Water Hickory Tree prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The Water Hickory Tree is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Water Hickory Tree is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to some issues. Here are some common problems to watch out for:Pests: The Water Hickory Tree can attract aphids, scale insects, and hickory shuckworms. These pests can cause damage to the leaves and nuts.Diseases: The Water Hickory Tree can be susceptible to pecan scab, which causes black spots on the leaves and nuts. It can also be affected by anthracnose, which causes brown spots on the leaves.
Habitat
The Water Hickory Tree is native to the southeastern United States and can be found growing along rivers, swamps, and other water sources. It prefers wet soils and can tolerate flooding.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Water Hickory Tree be grown in a container?
A: No, the Water Hickory Tree requires a lot of space and deep soil to grow properly.
Q: Are the nuts from the Water Hickory Tree edible?
A: Yes, the nuts are edible and can be used in cooking and baking.
Q: How fast does the Water Hickory Tree grow?
A: The Water Hickory Tree grows at a moderate rate of 1-2 feet per year.
Q: Is the Water Hickory Tree a good shade tree?
A: Yes, the Water Hickory Tree has a nice rounded crown and can provide good shade.
Related Plants
- Carya Illinoinensis (Pecan)
- Carya Ovata (Shagbark Hickory)
- Carya Tomentosa (Mockernut Hickory)
References
- “Carya Aquatica.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/st130.
- “Water Hickory.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287912.
- “Carya Aquatica.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CAAQ.
