Description and habitat
Shagbark Hickory (Carya ovata) is a large deciduous tree in the Walnut Family (Juglandaceae), reaching 20-40 m tall. This tree is named for its peeling bark, which is often described as shaggy. This the most distinguishing feature of Shagbark Hickories, making it easily identifiable. Shagbark Hickory is one of Long Point’s four hickory species – the other three species are the commonly observed Bitternut Hickory (Carya cordiformis) and the much rarer Red / Pignut Hickory (Carya glabra) and Shellbark Hickory (Carya lacinoisa). Shagbark Hickory can be found throughout Ontario south of the Canadian Shield and in the Frontenac / Cataraqui region, where warm summers and low elevation enable its survival.
The foliage of Shagbark Hickory is alternately arranged, and pinnately compound, emerging late for an Ontario hardwood tree, in mid-May. In total, each leaf measures 30-60 cm, divided into 5-7 leaflets with finely toothed margins (this contrasts with Bitternut Hickory, which produces 7-11 leaflets, each smaller and thinner). Hickory leaflets are obovate – the upper part is wider than the lower part near the leaf base. The terminal leaflets are much larger than the base pair. In the autumn, the leaves turn a golden yellow or a rusty orange. Shagbark Hickory grows at a moderate rate for an Ontario tree. Shagbark Hickory produces large stout buds around 2 cm long, which strongly contrasts with the long thin sulfur-yellow buds produced by Bitternut Hickory.
Within its native distribution, Shagbark Hickory most often occurs in moist or floodplain forests, though it is adaptable to a wide variety of habitats. In mesophytic woodlands dominated by Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum) and Beech (Fagus grandifolia), Shagbark Hickory is a widely observed tree, though relatively uncommon compared to the dominant maples and beeches. If Oak (Quercus sp.) or Red Maple (Acer rubrum) dominate, Shagbark Hickory is usually more common. Large populations of Shagbark Hickory can also be found in floodplain forests (though away from the immediate riverbank), where it often grows with Black Walnut (Juglans nigra), Black Maple (Acer nigrum), Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis), Basswood (Tilia americana) and Ash (Fraxinus sp.). It is also found as a rare tree within oak savannas, or along the edges of Silver Maple (Acer saccharinum) swamps, but not within them – Shagbark Hickory is typically intolerant of poorly drained, flooded sites. The understories of hickory forests often have a rich diversity of shrubs and native wildflowers.
Wildlife importance
When trees are at least 10 years old, large nuts (3-4 cm) are produced by Shagbark Hickory. These hickory nuts are a valuable resource for wildlife, including small mammals, especially squirrels (Sciuridae), and seed-eating birds. Nut production varies widely each year – similarly to oaks, most nut production occurs during “mast years” with favourable conditions. The leaves are a source of food for insects, especially beetles and moths. Shagbark Hickory foliage is a food resource for Luna Moths (Actias luna) and Hickory Hairstreak Butterfly (Satyrium caryaevorus). Luna Moth caterpillars grow up to 6.5 cm before over wintering in a cocoon and emerging as an adult moth with a wingspan of up to 10.5 cm, arguably one of North America’s most beautiful moths. Adult Luna Moths are short-lived, with a lifespan of ~10 days, which is primarily focused on reproduction.
Fun facts
- Shagbark Hickory is a long-lived tree – in ideal conditions, it can live more than 250 years!
- The dense hardwood of Shagbark Hickory is very useful for many products, including tool handles, flooring, and furniture.
- Shagbark hickory develops a strong taproot to anchor the tree, preventing soil erosion.
- Hickory wood is slow to burn and can generate a rich flavour, making it a popular choice for use for cooking near the campfire!
Written by Matthew Palarchio, HBSc in Environmental Sciences, Western University.
Photo Credits (L-R)
Growth Form © Matthew Palarchio
Bark © Matthew Palarchio
Spring leaves © Matthew Palarchio
Foliage and fruit © Shawn Chong
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