Quick answer: Mockernut hickory (Carya tomentosa) is native to 26 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically live plant, verified 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Photo by David J. Stang, 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 | Part Shade (best in sun) |
|---|---|
| Water | Medium |
| Soil | Dry, sandy to mesic, rich, acidic |
| Bloom | Apr |
| Height | 50-60 ft (to 100 ft) |
| Wildlife value | Larval host for luna, funeral dagger, giant regal moths, attracts birds/butterflies |
none noted; nearly impossible to transplant due to taproot, difficult to find in commerce
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Live plant via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Mockernut hickory
Where is Mockernut hickory native?
Mockernut hickory (Carya tomentosa) is native to 26 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 Mockernut hickory bloom?
Mockernut hickory blooms Apr. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Mockernut hickory need?
Light: Part Shade (best in sun). Water: Medium. Soil: Dry, sandy to mesic, rich, acidic. Mature height: 50-60 ft (to 100 ft).
Is Mockernut hickory good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Larval host for luna, funeral dagger, giant regal moths, attracts birds/butterflies.
Where can I buy real Mockernut hickory seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as live plant that names the true species, last checked 16 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Carya tomentosa on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Mockernut hickory.
- Tulip tree Liriodendron tulipifera
- Northern spicebush Lindera benzoin
- Pawpaw Asimina triloba
- Pin oak Quercus palustris
- Cockspur hawthorn Crataegus crus-galli
- Black oak Quercus velutina
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.