Quick answer: Shagbark hickory (Carya ovata) is native to 34 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 04 Nov 2026.
Photo: Famartin, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun, Part Shade, Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Medium water, Dry-Moist |
| Soil | Well-drained, fertile soils - sandy loam, clay |
| Bloom | Bloom Mar-Jun |
| Height | 60-80 ft, up to 150 ft |
| Wildlife value | Squirrels and birds eat seeds/catkins, nesting sites and cover |
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (04 Nov 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 04 Nov 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Shagbark hickory
Where is Shagbark hickory native?
Shagbark hickory (Carya ovata) is native to 34 states across the Northeast, Midwest and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Shagbark hickory bloom?
Shagbark hickory blooms Mar-Jun. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Shagbark hickory need?
Light: Sun, Part Shade, Shade. Water: Medium water, Dry-Moist. Soil: Well-drained, fertile soils - sandy loam, clay. Mature height: 60-80 ft, up to 150 ft.
Is Shagbark hickory good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Squirrels and birds eat seeds/catkins, nesting sites and cover.
Is Shagbark hickory deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Shagbark hickory is drought-tolerant and tolerates shade.
Where can I buy real Shagbark hickory seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 04 Nov 2026. Look for the scientific name Carya ovata on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Shagbark hickory.
- Black cherry Prunus serotina
- White ash Fraxinus americana
- American basswood Tilia americana
- Downy serviceberry Amelanchier arborea
- Eastern red cedar Juniperus virginiana
- White oak Quercus alba
Also listed under
Get the full buying guide
Every pick worth knowing across pollinators, shade, drought and more, in one PDF, with the tradeoffs spelled out. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.