Mockernut hickory

Mockernut Hickory (Carya tomentosa), also known as mockernut, white hickory, hognut, and bullnut, is a tree in the walnut family. It is native to the eastern United States, from Southern Ontario to central Florida and from the east coast to the Great Plains.

Description

The Mockernut Hickory is a large deciduous tree that can reach heights of 20–30 m (66–98 ft). The leaves are pinnately compound, with 7–9 leaflets. The flowers are small, yellow-green catkins produced in spring. The fruit is a large, globose nut, 2.5–4 cm (0.98–1.57 in) long and wide, surrounded by a four-valved husk which splits open at maturity.

Habitat and Distribution

The Mockernut Hickory is found in a variety of habitats, including dry or wet woods, slopes, and ridges. It is often found in association with other hickories, as well as with oaks, maples, and pines. Its range extends from southern Ontario and western New England west to the eastern Great Plains, and south to central Florida and eastern Texas.

Uses

The wood of the Mockernut Hickory is hard, heavy, and strong. It is used for tool handles, furniture, paneling, and other wood products. The nuts are also edible, although they are not as commonly collected for food as those of some other hickory species.

Conservation Status

The Mockernut Hickory is not currently considered to be at risk of extinction. However, like all forest trees, it is potentially threatened by habitat loss due to deforestation and development.

See Also

• Hickory
• Carya
• Juglandaceae