Water Hickory Carya aquatica 10 Seeds USA Company

Carya aquatica, commonly known as the water hickory, is a species of hickory tree native to the southeastern United States. Here are some key features and information about Carya aquatica:

Description: Water hickory is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 30 meters (100 feet) in height. It has a straight trunk and a rounded crown with pinnately compound leaves.

Leaves: The leaves of Carya aquatica are pinnately compound, typically consisting of 7 to 11 leaflets. The leaflets are lance-shaped with serrated edges.

Bark: The bark of the water hickory is gray and becomes deeply furrowed as the tree matures.

Fruit: The fruit of Carya aquatica is a nut enclosed in a husk. The nut is round and typically has a thick shell. The nuts are an important food source for wildlife.

Habitat: Water hickory is often found in wetland areas, including swamps, riverbanks, and floodplains. It has a preference for moist soils and is well-adapted to growing in areas prone to seasonal flooding.

Range: The natural range of Carya aquatica includes parts of the southeastern United States, from Virginia to Florida and west to Texas.

Ecological Importance: The nuts of water hickory are an important food source for various wildlife, including squirrels, deer, and waterfowl. The tree itself provides habitat for birds and insects.

Wood: The wood of water hickory is used for various purposes, including construction, tool handles, and fuel. However, it is not as commercially important as some other hickory species.

Cultural Uses: While not as commonly utilized as some other hickory species, water hickory has historical uses by indigenous peoples for various purposes. For example, some Native American groups used the nuts as a food source.

Conservation: While water hickory is not considered endangered, like many wetland-associated species, it can be affected by habitat loss and alterations to natural water regimes. Conservation efforts often involve protecting and restoring wetland habitats where this species occurs.

Carya aquatica plays a role in the ecology of wetland areas, providing food for wildlife and contributing to the overall biodiversity of these ecosystems. Its adaptability to wet conditions makes it a distinctive member of the hickory genus.