History: Shagbark Hickory is native to parts of southern Ontario and much of the eastern United States. Much more common than the Shellbark Hickory, Shagbark Hickory is an important source of food for many species. Indigenous peoples also used the nuts as a food source and made the kernel milk into various dishes, along with using the wood to make bows. The strong wood is also used to make items such as tool handles and drumsticks that require extra durability.
Why We Grow It: Shagbark Hickory produces an abundant crop of small hickory nuts every year and the sap can also be boiled for a unique flavored syrup (we haven't tried this yet, but would love to hear about it if you have!). The tree gets its name from the unique peeling bark, adding extra visual appeal wherever the tree is planted.
Canadian Hardiness Zone: 5
Soil Preference: Loamy and sandy soils
Growth Habits and Disease Resistance: Tree reaches 20-30m tall but can reach 46m in some cases
Sun/Shade: Full sun preferred but can tolerate partial shade (approx. 6-10 hours of sun daily)
Pollination: Requires another Shagbark Hickory tree in order to pollinate and produce nuts
Flowering Time: Spring
Bloom Colour: Green
Ripens: Late October
Storage:Nuts can be stored for up to a year in proper conditions
Recommended Use: Nuts used for fresh eating, cooking, or baking
