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Mockernut hickory
Also known as: Whiteheart hickory, Bullnut
Mockernut hickory is the most abundant of the hickories and has a long life span of up to 500 years. The nuts from this tree are edible, and the wood is considered by many to be the best of all hickories and is frequently used to make rustic furniture.
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Perennial
Lifespan
Tree
Plant Type
Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer
Bloom Time
Fall
Harvest Time
18 m to 24 m
Plant Height
12 m to 18 m
Spread
Green, Blue, Yellow
Leaf Color
10 cm to 13 cm
Flower Size
Brown, Green
Fruit Color
5 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Slow
Growth Rate

Images of Mockernut hickory

Attributes of Mockernut hickory

Growth Rate
In its active growing seasons of Spring and Summer, mockernut hickory's slow growth rate translates into nominal yearly increments in height. The plant exhibits cautious, steady development, expending energy on resilient structures and meticulous leaf production. Its unhurried pace correlates with a lifespan extending up to 500 years, a remarkable horticultural phenomenon.

Distribution of Mockernut hickory

Distribution Map
Mockernut hickory is native to the eastern United States and Canada and also grows as an introduced species in several parts of central and eastern Europe. The tree enjoys dry locations on south or west-facing slopes and ridges. This tree is also grown ornamentally in its native range and commercially for its wood.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Along ridges, dry hills and hillsides
Hemisphere Trend Curve

Culture

Garden Use
A big, impressive tree that needs a lot of room to grow, mockernut hickory is generally planted by gardeners who have a big yard or lawn and want an imposing and good-looking tree that is fairly easy to care for. It is usually planted as a shade tree or the focal point of a lawn or garden, and can also be used as the canopy for a shade garden.
Symbolism
Legal matters, clinginess
Interesting Facts
The nuts of the mockernut hickory are an important food source for many forest animals. A long living tree, there are some mockernut hickory trees that are known to be over 500 years old. Squirrels, birds and other animals bury the nuts further away, which then germinate to grow new seedlings for this slow growing hardwood tree.
Name Story
Mockernut hickory: Any plants from the Carya genus are called hickory. To distinguish different species, they are usually named after their special characteristics. This plant is called mockernut hickory which seems to be mocking the plant. The origin of the mockernut and its fruits are tightly related. Its fruit has a large shell but the pulp is tiny. Hence, people regard the plant as "an empty suit", mockingly name it the mockernut hickory.
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Care Guide for Mockernut hickory

Every 1-2 weeks
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
5 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Water: Mockernut hickory thrives in moderate moisture, requiring watering every 1-2 weeks. It shows moderate drought tolerance and needs less water during dormancy in colder climates, adapting well to seasonal changes typically found in its native deciduous forest habitat.
Fertilize: Fertilizing mockernut hickory is essential for growth and health, using balanced or high-nitrogen fertilizers in early spring and autumn. Apply moderately to prevent harm, adjusting for seasonal nutrient needs, with reduced amounts in winter. Wear gloves and water mockernut hickory after fertilization to aid absorption and avoid root burn.
Pruning: Mockernut hickory, with its sturdy structure and edible nuts, thrives with early spring pruning before growth. Trim dead or crossing branches for airflow and sunlight penetration, avoiding heavy pruning to prevent stress. Regular light pruning fosters healthy, attractive trees, enhancing growth and vigor before the growing season.
Propagation: Mockernut hickory thrives in the Eastern United States, valued for its hardwood and nuts. Propagation via cuttings from healthy trees is critical; using semi-hardwood sections improves success. Clean cuts, rooting hormone, proper moisture, and substrate are essential for root establishment and robust growth.
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