939-1 Hickory-Shagbark (Packed In Units of 25 Seedlings)

Shagbark Hickory: (Carya ovata) is a large tree known for its distinctive "shaggy" bark that peels off in long strips, which is how it gets its name. Native to the eastern United States, this remarkable tree produces edible nuts and strong wood that is commonly used for tool handles and smoking meat. Shagbark hickories can live impressively long lives, often ranging from 200 to 300 years, and prefer moist, well-drained soil. They can grow up to 100 feet tall. Young shagbark hickory trees have smooth, gray bark, but as they mature, the bark develops a shaggy appearance due to the long, thick plates that peel away from the trunk. The leaves of the tree are compound, typically featuring five to seven smaller leaflets arranged on a single stem. Shagbark hickories are slow-growing with a deep taproot, making them difficult to transplant. As they grow, they can reach heights of 70 to 100 feet and may have a spread of 45 to 70 feet. In terms of habitat and requirements, shagbark hickories can thrive in full sun or partial shade. They prefer fertile, deep, and well-drained soil, but they can adapt to sandy and clay loams and do well in moist soils and humid climates. These trees are typically found across the eastern and central United States, often scattered among other trees in mixed forests rather than forming pure stands. The uses of shagbark hickory are varied and significant. The nuts have a sweet, aromatic kernel that provides a food source for wildlife, including squirrels and bears, and can also be enjoyed by humans after cracking the hard shell. Historically, the nuts were utilized to create "hickory milk" by boiling them and straining the liquid. Additionally, the wood of the shagbark hickory is powerful, durable, and shock-resistant, making it ideal for various applications, such as tool handles, skis, ladder rungs, and other sporting goods. It is also a sought-after choice for firewood and for smoking meats.