Carya ovata, commonly known as Shagbark Hickory, is a majestic native deciduous tree prized for its distinctive shaggy bark and abundant nutmeat. This hardy species reaches 60–80 feet at maturity and produces sweet, edible nuts in fall, attracting wildlife and providing food for generations. Growing Conditions: Plant in full sun to partial shade in well-draining soil. Shagbark Hickory thrives in USDA zones 4–9 and prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and requires minimal maintenance. Space trees 40–50 feet apart to allow for full canopy development. This slow-growing native tree is long-lived, often reaching 200+ years, making it an excellent investment for your landscape and local ecosystem.