Trees in the genus Carya (from Ancient Greek êÜñõïí "nut") are commonly known as hickory. The hickory genus includes 17–19 species of deciduous trees with pinnately compound leaves and large nuts. A dozen or so species are native to North America (11–12 in the United States, 1 in Mexico), and 5–6 species from China and Indochina. The hickory tree, along with the oaks truly dominates the hardwood forests of North America.
The Common North American Hickory Species
Dormant Identification:
Has tan, 5-sided or angled pith; has variable bark not helpful except for loose, flaky shagbark hickory; Has nuts and husks under tree; has stout twigs with large terminal bud.
Leaves: mostly alternate, pinnately
compound, finely toothed.
Fruit: hard-shelled nut.
ID Glossary
