Red hickory (Carya ovalis)

Red hickory

Also known as: Small pignut

The red hickory is generally encountered as a medium-sized tree, capable of growing to 30 m in height. The single trunk is straight and often continues for the entire height of the tree, although sometimes splits into several large limbs once the canopy has been breached.

Scientific classification

Species

Red hickory (Carya ovalis)

Beeches, walnuts, and allied trees

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Green, Yellow, Gold

Flower Color

Gray, Silver, Brown

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Images of Red hickory

Quickly Identify Red hickory

Height: Reaches up to 80 feet (24 meters), towering above other species.

Bark Texture: Bark transitions from ridged youth to shaggy maturity, distinctive and rugged.

Leaflet Shape: Elliptic to lanceolate-elliptic, with serrated margins and acute tips.

Female Flowers: Short red spikes in groups of 2-3, adding visual interest.

Fruit Husk: Splits into four sections, revealing a whitish nut kernel.

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Care Guide for Red hickory

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Red hickory thrives in woodland-like environments with alternating rain and dry periods. It requires deep watering every three weeks, reflecting its drought tolerance. As an outdoor deciduous tree, red hickory conserves water by shedding leaves during dormancy to minimize transpiration and resource consumption.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, red hickory requires balanced fertilizers, switching to high-nitrogen ones during growth periods. Fertilize annually in spring, adjusting amounts for young versus mature plants. Water thoroughly after fertilization to enhance nutrient absorption and avoid root burn.

Pruning: Red hickory thrives with strategic early spring pruning, focusing on removing dead or diseased wood, thinning branches, and shaping the crown. This enhances air circulation and light penetration, promoting healthier growth, increasing disease resilience, and improving both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.

Propagation: Red hickory can be propagated by sowing clean, viable seeds in a well-prepared soil mix, maintaining adequate moisture for germination. Even though it is hardy, monitoring for pests and diseases in early growth stages can significantly improve success rates.

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