Shellbark Hickory (lat. Carya laciniosa) is the genus Carya representative of the Walnut family.  The homeland of this tree is North America, where it was originally distributed almost throughout the territory of the modern United States. However, its distribution range has significantly decreased under the influence of human economic activity. In nature, it grows in mixed and deciduous forests.

 “Shellbark Hickory” is a tree up to 30 m high with a straight trunk, covered with light gray bark that peels off in narrow strips. The leaves are quite large, consisting of 7-9 leaflets. The plant is self-fertile, but to get a good harvest, it is recommended to plant several trees. Flowers appear simultaneously with leaves quite late in late May, or early June. But for growing in Latvian conditions, this is undoubtedly a plus, since the risk of damaging delicate flowers and leaves with reoccurring spring frosts is reduced.

   The fruits of the tree are ovoid or round, with 4 curved edges. The skin of the fruit is red-brown, and thick and opens as it ripens. The nut is very large, round, or ovoid, with a thick shell. The core is large, easily pulled out, light brown, with a pleasant sweet taste.

   “Shellbark Hickory” prefers loose, fertile, slightly acidic, or neutral soils. These trees do not like too acidic, heavy, clayey, and waterlogged soils” Shellbark Hickory” walnut loves the sun, but tolerates light shading well. The optimal distance between trees is 10 m. Protection from strong winds is recommended for them. Buildings or trees that are characterized by increased wind resistance can act as protection.  Trees are planted in planting pits, the size of which should be at least sixty centimeters in depth and width. The soil around the seedling is recommended to be regularly mulched and fed with compost and also protected from strong frosts and winds during the winter for the first three years. These trees are ideal for landscaping gardens and parks.

   ”Shellbark Hickory” nuts are used in cooking, most often for the preparation of confectionery. Nuts are very nutritious and tasty. They contain almost as much protein as chicken and are an excellent source of minerals, especially calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. They are also a good source of folic acid, one of the essential vitamins for expectant mothers. Hickory nuts are high in really good fats. The bulk of the oil consists of monounsaturated fatty acids. Oils with a high content of monounsaturated fatty acids tend to lower “bad” cholesterol, prevent heart disease, and reduce insulin resistance, making hickory nuts a good food for diabetics. Although they are high in fat, nuts are also considered a great food for dieters.