Shellbark Hickory is one of the easiest hickories to grow. It transplants well and grows in a variety of soils and climates. Our Ecos plantings began by collecting seed from mostly grafted selections from Iowa, Illinois and Michigan. Some of these trees named varieties were selected for their yields or large nuts. We planted them on the tops of our hills mixed with other hybrid types of shagbark hickory and hicans. Our Ecos selections are now grown from these seedling trees. Some of the trees took 20 years to come into production although a few fruited in 10 years. The trees are vigorous easily reaching 10 ft. tall in 5 -7 years. Fruiting occurs once they reach 2-4 inches in caliper. Plant two for pollination on this species to ensure flowering overlap.
Grows 2-3 ft. once established. Good in wet or dry soils, with clay or loam. if you have a wide open field, this is a perfect hickory in even worn out soil. It was one the first trees we planted surrounding our farm.
We offer field grown trees that are available in the dormant spring and fall seasons and pot grown plants that keep the tap root contained.
| Plant Specs |
| Genus & Species |
Carya laciniosa |
| Seed Source |
Ecos-Michigan |
| Hardiness |
-25 F or more |
| Height (ft) |
75 |
| Width (ft) |
50 |
| Pollination Requirements |
Self fertile but two is best for overlap of blossoming. |
| Soil |
Heavy loam, clay. |
| Climate |
Zone 4-9 |
| Ease of Cultivation |
If you have to have one hickory, plant this. The thick shells may deter you from harvesting a lot of them but the flavor is worth it. Trees are one of the most symmetrical and fast growing hickories available. |
