Hickory, Shagbark (Bareroot)

Shagbark Hickory is a prized forest tree celebrated by foragers and nut enthusiasts for its superior flavor and distinct shaggy bark. We offer this species as bareroot stock for late fall and early spring dormant planting, providing a cost-effective option for establishing larger groves or agroforestry systems. When planted correctly in a well-prepared site, these young trees develop deep taproots that support long-term resilience.

Carya ovata is a native hardwood known for its adaptability and ecological value. Our selection consists of seedlings grown from grafted cultivars and superior seedling trees, specifically chosen for their nut production traits. These parent lines include genetics selected for kernel quality, ease of cracking, and reliable yields.

This species is an excellent choice for riparian buffers, edible landscapes, and wildlife habitat restoration. It serves as a larval host for the Banded Hairstreak and Hickory Hairstreak butterflies while providing abundant food for local wildlife. Shagbark Hickory thrives in moist soil with full sun but can also establish in drier upland sites. Hardy in zones 4–8, it reaches a mature height of 70 feet with a spread of 50 feet.

Whether planted for its timber value, ecological benefits, or future nut harvest, this adaptable tree adds significant long-term value to the landscape. Growers can expect a robust specimen capable of enduring varied conditions. Bareroot stock should be planted before top growth begins to ensure the best start in a well-prepared site.

Cultivar Notes

• Grainger: Grainger originated in Tennessee and bears a large nut that cracks easily. It ripens later than other shagbarks, in mid to late October.
• Grimo Orchard Selection: Best producing, best kernel extracting selections from the seedling trees of grafted Grainger, Neilson, Porter, Weschcke and Yoder #1.
• Normung: Gathered and selected from a planted hedgerow in the Hudson Valley, NY. Bears medium-sized nuts which crack out well and produces heavy crops bi-annually.
• Wilcox: Produces a tasty, medium-sized nut that cracks easily into halves. A prolific tree, it bears early within five to seven years. The first Wilcox tree was discovered in 1934 in Geneva, OH. It’s an early-ripening tree that is well suited for colder climates.