There are several species in the hickory group Carya. They all share similar characteristics, pinnately compound leaves, large nuts and hard tough wood. Hickory’s have bright white sapwood and light brown heartwood. The toughness of hickory makes it the preferred choice for striking tool handles such as hammers, axes, pickaxe, etc. as well as flooring and cabinets.

Hickories are a great wildlife tree for any forest. The nuts are also enjoyed by people, pecans are in the hickory family. Other verities of hickory nuts are edible as well but less common due to the extremely hard outer shells. Hickory wood is also widely used for smoking meats such as ham, pulled pork and ribs.