Bitternut Hickory
Specifications
- Also known as: Swamp hickory, bitternut
- Latin (scientific) name: Carya cordiformis
- Life expectancy: 200 years
- Height: 134 feet
- Circumference: 5-1/2 feet
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The height and circumference measurements listed here are for the largest-known bitternut hickory in Atlanta. This tree is located at Emory University.
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Special characteristics:
This is the smallest but most abundant of the hickory trees. It iss easily distinguished in the winter by its bright-yellow buds.
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Fun Facts:
This tree is closely related to the pecan tree, but unlike pecans, its nuts are not edible. Its wood is very hard and durable, good for furniture-making.
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Photo Credits:
Tree: T. Davis Sydnor, The Ohio State University, Bugwood.org
Bark: Paul Wray, Iowa State University, Bugwood.org
Leaves: Chris Evans, Illinois Wildlife Action Plan, Bugwood.org
Flowers: Paul Wray, Iowa State University, Bugwood.org
Early Nut: Paul Wray, Iowa State University, Bugwood.org
Mature Nut: Franklin Bonner, USFS (ret.), Bugwood.org