Contents
Description
Carya Cordiformis, commonly known as the Bitternut Hickory, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the walnut family. It is native to eastern North America and can grow up to 100 feet tall with a trunk diameter of 3 feet. The leaves of the Bitternut Hickory are alternate, pinnately compound, and have five to nine leaflets. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in the spring that are followed by edible nuts in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Juglandaceae |
| Genus | Carya |
Appearance
The Bitternut Hickory has a tall, straight trunk with a broad, rounded crown. The bark is light gray and smooth when young, but becomes rough and furrowed with age. The leaves are bright green in the summer, turning yellow in the fall. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in the spring that are followed by bitter nuts that are about 1 inch long and have a thin husk.
Care Guide
Water: The Bitternut Hickory does not require much watering once established, but it should be watered deeply during dry periods.Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: The Bitternut Hickory prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.Sunlight: The tree requires full sun to grow properly.Hardiness Zones: The Bitternut Hickory can grow in hardiness zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Bitternut Hickory is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including:Pests: Hickory shuckworm, hickory bark beetle, walnut caterpillar, and pecan weevil.Diseases: Hickory decline, leaf spot, and powdery mildew.To prevent these issues, it is important to maintain proper tree care practices and monitor the tree regularly for any signs of damage or disease.
Habitat
The Bitternut Hickory is native to eastern North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including floodplains, upland woods, and savannas. It is often found growing in mixed forests with other hardwood trees.
Question and Answer
Q: How long does it take for a Bitternut Hickory to produce nuts?A: The Bitternut Hickory typically begins to produce nuts when it is 10-15 years old.Q: Are Bitternut Hickory nuts edible?A: Yes, Bitternut Hickory nuts are edible, but they are very bitter.Q: Can Bitternut Hickory tolerate drought?A: While the Bitternut Hickory is relatively drought-tolerant once established, it will benefit from regular watering during extended dry periods.Q: What is the average lifespan of a Bitternut Hickory?A: The Bitternut Hickory can live up to 200 years or more in the right conditions.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Carya genus include:
- Carya Illinoinensis (Pecan)
- Carya Glabra (Pignut Hickory)
- Carya Ovata (Shagbark Hickory)
- Carya Tomentosa (Mockernut Hickory)
References
- Bonner, F. T. (2008). Trees of North America: A Guide to Field Identification (Revised and Updated). Sterling Publishing Company, Inc.
- Gilman, E. F., & Watson, D. G. (1994). Carya Cordiformis. Fact Sheet ST-104. University of Florida IFAS Extension.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Carya Cordiformis. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a921
