Explore the Water Hickory: A Wetland Native with Wildlife Benefits

The Water Hickory (Carya aquatica) is a substantial native deciduous tree. It belongs to the walnut family and is a key component of wetland forests in the southeastern US. Notably, it plays an important role in cleansing water runoff during flooding. While it thrives in wet soils, optimal growth occurs in moist, well-drained soils near rivers and waterways. This tree can spread effectively through both seeds and root sprouts. In the spring, inconspicuous male and female flowers appear. These give way to nuts that, although bitter, are enjoyed by waterfowl and small mammals. Reaching impressive heights, the Water Hickory is a valuable tree for those with ponds, streams, or moist areas and offers significant wildlife value. It also serves as a food source for the larvae of several moth species.

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A tall Water Hickory stands near a waterway, its shaggy bark and glossy leaves characteristic of its adaptation to moist environments and its role in the ecosystem.

Scientific Name: Carya aquatica
Common Name: Water Hickory, Bitter Pecan, Bitter Water Hickory, Swamp Hickory, Water Pignut
Hardiness Zones: 7a through 11b
Height: 80 to 100 feet or more
Spread: 40 to 50 feet
Growth Rate: Slow
Foliage: Spring sees the emergence of dark green, glossy compound leaves. These feature 7 to 15 curved, lance-shaped leaflets with toothed margins. Fine hairs are present along the midrib and major veins on the undersides.
Bark: The bark is smooth and light gray to brown when young. With age, it develops narrow, loose, shaggy, red-tinged scales.
Sun: Full sun to partial shade is suitable for the Water Hickory.
Soil: This tree demonstrates a high tolerance for wet soils and occasional flooding. However, it grows best on moist, well-drained soils near water sources. It can also adapt to loam and sandy soils with high organic matter.
Wildlife Value: The bitter nuts of the Water Hickory are a food source for ducks and other birds. Additionally, it acts as a larval host plant for Luna moths, Hickory leafroller moths, and Royal walnut moths, supporting a variety of wildlife.

Why Choose Water Hickory?

Thrives in Wet and Moist Environments:

The Water Hickory is an excellent choice for landscapes with wet soils, pond margins, or stream banks. Its natural habitat includes these areas, and it is well-adapted to such conditions. Furthermore, it can aid in cleansing water runoff in floodplains.

Provides Food for Waterfowl and Small Mammals:

While the nuts of the Water Hickory are bitter to humans, they serve as a vital food source for ducks, squirrels, and other wildlife. This makes it a beneficial tree for attracting and supporting local fauna in appropriate environments

Supports a Variety of Moths:

This native hickory acts as a host plant for the larvae of several beautiful moth species, including the iconic Luna moth. By planting a Water Hickory, you contribute to the life cycle and conservation of these important pollinators and insects.

Large Shade Tree for Spacious, Wet Areas:

For property owners with ample space and moist to wet conditions, the Water Hickory grows into a large shade tree. It offers a canopy that can provide significant shade and contribute to the overall health of wetland or riparian areas.

Environmental Benefits of Planting Water Hickory

This data is based on US Averages of healthy and mature trees over a 20-year period.
Check out the USDA’s MyTree Tool to input your custom location data.

CO2 Offset

A single water hickory can offset the CO₂ emissions produced by driving an average gas-powered car for 15,451 miles.

Water Filtration

A single water hickory can absorb enough stormwater to fill 1,750 bathtubs, reducing erosion, runoff, and supporting transpiration.

Removes Air Pollution

A single water hickory removes as much air pollution as the weight of 174 smartphones.

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Sixteen years ago, we partnered with forestry researchers and a science teacher on an ambitious mission: cloning one of the world's oldest trees, The Senator, a 3,500-year-old bald cypress. When this ancient giant was tragically lost to fire in 2012, our work became more vital than ever. Today, its legacy lives on through The Phoenix—an identical clone now flourishing in Big Tree Park.

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