Carya glabra

Phylloxera galls. Carya glabra

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Pignut-hickory-nut

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Carya glabra bud

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Carya glabra bud break

Carya glabra leaves

Carya glabra, commonly known as the pignut hickory, is a species of hickory native to eastern North America. It is a deciduous tree that is part of the Juglandaceae family, which also includes walnuts and other types of hickories. This article provides an overview of Carya glabra, including its description, habitat, uses, and conservation status.

Description

Carya glabra is a medium to large tree, typically reaching heights of 20 to 30 meters (65 to 100 feet), with a trunk diameter of up to 1 meter (3.3 feet). The bark is gray and smooth when the tree is young, but it becomes furrowed as it ages. The leaves are pinnately compound, with five to seven leaflets that are lance-shaped and serrated on the edges. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in the spring. Male flowers are arranged in hanging catkins, while female flowers are shorter and found at the tips of branches. The fruit is a nut encased in a thin husk that splits open in the fall to release the nut.

Habitat

Carya glabra is found in a variety of forest types across eastern North America, from southern Ontario and Quebec in Canada, south to Florida, and west to Texas and Kansas in the United States. It prefers well-drained soils and is commonly found in upland areas, often coexisting with other hardwood species such as oaks and other types of hickories.

Uses

The wood of Carya glabra is tough, hard, and durable, making it valuable for a variety of uses. It is often used in the manufacture of tool handles, furniture, and flooring. The wood is also prized for smoking meat, as it imparts a distinctive flavor. Although the nuts are edible, they are not as commonly consumed as those of other hickory species due to their bitter taste. However, they are an important food source for wildlife, including squirrels, deer, and turkeys.

Conservation Status

Carya glabra is not currently listed as threatened or endangered. It is a common species within its range and is able to thrive in a variety of habitats. However, like many forest species, it faces threats from habitat destruction and fragmentation. Conservation efforts focus on preserving natural habitats and promoting sustainable forestry practices to ensure the long-term survival of this and other forest species.

See Also

• Hickory
• Juglandaceae
• Deciduous trees
• Forestry