Carya tomentosa (Mockernut Hickory)

The most abundant native hickory, mockernut supports an exceptional 231 species of Lepidoptera as larval host, making it one of the highest-value wildlife trees available for long-term upland forest restoration - though its large taproot means it's essentially impossible to transplant once established.

Species Overview

Carya tomentosa, commonly known as mockernut hickory, is a deciduous tree native to the eastern and central United States. It typically reaches heights of 60 to 80 feet, with a straight trunk and a broad, rounded crown. The tree is distinguished by its compound leaves, each consisting of seven to nine leaflets that are dark green and hairy (tomentose) on the underside. In the fall, the leaves turn a golden yellow, and the tree produces large, thick-shelled nuts valued as a food source for wildlife.

Application

• Upland hardwood forest restoration on dry, sandy-to-mesic, rich soils
• Long-term shade tree specification, particularly on residential, park, and parkway sites
• Wildlife habitat plantings - exceptional Lepidoptera host value and nut production
• Sites tolerant of black walnut juglone

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

• Light: Part Shade
• Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Moist, dry sandy to mesic, rich soils
• Growth Rate: Slow
• Plant Type: Tree
• Mature Height: 50-80 ft. (occasionally to 100 ft.)
• Fall Color: Yellow
• Bloom Color / Period: Green, Yellow; April-May
• Wetland Indicator Status: FACU (Facultative Upland) - confirmed regional source
• Native Range: Eastern and central United States
• Hydrology: Dry-Mesic
• Salinity Tolerance: Low
• Drought Tolerance: Moderate
• Deer Resistance: Some
• Flood Tolerance: Low - A dry-upland hickory of ridges and well-drained slopes; not documented as flood tolerant.
• Shade Tolerance: Intermediate
• Root Depth: Very Deep (36 in.+) - deep taproot, nearly impossible to transplant
• Growth Habit: Rounded - broadly rounded at maturity
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9
• Pollinator Value: Larval host, supports butterflies, supports moths
• Juglone Tolerance: Tolerant