Plant Details

Carya glaba

Sweet Pignut, Pignut hickory

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Explore the size, hardiness, soil, light, edible uses and harvest period of Carya glaba.

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General Information

Scientific name: Carya glaba
Also known as: Sweet Pignut, Pignut hickory

Plant Properties

Layer: Nut tree
Size: Large
Height: 30.00 m
Width: 20.00 m
Growth Rate: Slow
Leaf: Deciduous

Growth conditions

USDA Hardiness: 4-9
Soil Moisture:
Well-drained, Moist
Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
pH:
Acidic Neutral Alkaline
Light:
Full sun

Usage properties

Edible part:
Sap, Seed
Edibility:
(3)
Medicinal:
(0)
Features:
Wood

Description

Seeds from this plant can be eaten both raw and cooked. The quality of the seeds varies greatly; some are sweet and pleasant, while others can be bitter and astringent. Generally, the seeds of this plant are of lesser quality compared to other hickories. They are relatively small, have a thick shell, and contain little edible content. The seeds ripen in late autumn and can be stored for at least 6 months in the shell in a cool place. The sap of this plant can be tapped in the spring and is used as a refreshing drink with a sweet taste.

Harvest Data

Start Harvest: 01/10
End of Harvest: 30/11

Crown Data

Crown Type: Narrow pyramidal
Crown Density: Dense crown