Carya ovata
Hickory
Explore the size, hardiness, soil, light, edible uses and harvest period of Carya ovata.
Plant Properties
Growth conditions
Well-drained, Moist
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
Acidic Neutral Alkaline
Full sun
Usage properties
Milk, Sap, Seed
Dye, Wood, Fragrant, Carbon farming
Description
Seeds can be eaten raw or cooked and are often used in pies, pastries, bread, and more. They have a sweet and delicious flavor. The seeds can be ground into flour and used to thicken soups. A milky substance can be made from the seeds and spread like butter on bread or vegetables. The shell of the seeds is usually thick and hard, but in certain cultivars, it can be thinner. The seeds ripen in late autumn and can be stored for up to 2 years in a cool cellar. The seeds are up to 4 cm long. The sap is sweet in taste and is tapped in the spring, and it can be used to make syrup.