Some believe this bears the tastiest nuts of all hickories, and it yields superior wood for baseball bats.

Southern Canada, eastern USA, northern Mexico. Uncommon in north-west Europe.

Monoecious.

Moderately tall (20–25m). Bark very distinctive, exfoliating in long curling strips. Twigs have very large terminal bud. Leaves pinnate compound, 20–35cm, leaflets 5(-7), hairs at junctions. Fruits 3–4cm drupes, thick husk, four valves.

Rarely produces nuts in Britain and Ireland due to cool spring temperatures. Choose fertile, well-drained soils.

Low where introduced.

Generally healthy.

Attractive specimen, foliage turning yellow-orange for weeks in autumn. Highly valuable, resistant timber for sports goods and tool handles.