Carya laciniosa

 

Big Shellbark Hickory is a large, slow growing and long-lived tree that can grow to a height of 30 m. It has compound leaves with 7 lance-shaped leaflets that are finely toothed. The distinctive bark is similar to Shagbark Hickory, with loose strips that peel away from the tree as it gets older. The edible nuts produced are the largest within the Hickory nut group. They are enclosed in a thick husk and ripen in the fall. They can be eaten raw or as a substitute for pecans in pies and baked goods. The sweet, nutrient rich nuts are eaten by mammals like Foxes, Bear, White-tailed Deer, rabbits, and squirrels, as well as many species of birds.

Big Shellbark Hickory does best when grown in full or part sun conditions. It is adaptable to many soil types and prefers moist to wet soils.