Carya cordiformis

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Carya cordiformis
BITTERNUT HICKORY

Juglandaceae
E. North America

Location: map coordinates V-15 (south of Loockerman Hall),
N 39°11'5'' W 75°32'42''

Planting history: planted 5/6/10. Source: Joseph Wick Nurseries, DE. (Dr. S. Yost, USDA NIFA Capacity Building Grant funds).

Description:
  • medium-sized to tall deciduous tree
  • etymology: Carya from Greek name Karya for walnut tree (Juglans regia); cordiformis for heart-shaped (the nut)
  • common name from nuts that are too bitter for humans to eat
  • leaf compound, with 7-9 leaflets
  • monoecious (separate male and female flowers on same plant); flowers tiny, unisexual; male flowers in catkins
  • nuts cylindrical, bitter; husks thin (<1/8”)
  • buds bright yellow
  • wood heavy and hard, used for tool handles and fuel (and formerly wooden wheels)
  • common forest tree, in varied soils

Native species, State Rank S5 (very common in Delaware)

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