Hickory

Hickory is a type of tree in the genus Carya. The wood of the hickory tree is commonly used for a variety of purposes, including the manufacture of furniture and the smoking of food. The nuts of some species are also edible.

Description

Hickory trees are deciduous, with a large, straight trunk and a broad crown. The bark is usually gray and peels off in strips. The leaves are pinnately compound, with 3-5 leaflets. The flowers are small and greenish, appearing in the spring. The fruit is a hard-shelled nut, enclosed in a green husk that splits open when the nut is ripe.

Species

There are about 18 species of hickory, including:

• Carya illinoinensis (Pecan)
• Carya laciniosa (Shellbark Hickory)
• Carya ovata (Shagbark Hickory)
• Carya tomentosa (Mockernut Hickory)

Uses

Hickory wood is hard, dense, and resistant to shock, making it ideal for tool handles, furniture, and flooring. It is also used for smoking meat, as it imparts a distinct flavor. The nuts of some species, such as the pecan, are edible and used in cooking.

Cultivation

Hickory trees prefer a sunny location with well-drained soil. They are slow-growing and can live for several hundred years. They are propagated by seed, which must be stratified before planting.

See also

• List of trees
• Woodworking
• Forestry

Hickory Resources
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