Found throughout the oak-hickory forests of Illinois, Bitternut Hickory is easily identified by its yellow bud. Hickory trees support a large number of caterpillars, over 200 species! A slower growing tree.
Pollinator Type
Caterpillars
Plant Type
Deciduous tree
Zone
4 to 9
Height
60-80 ft
Spread
30-50 ft
Light
Partial Shade, Full Sun
Moisture Requirement
Bloom Color
Green
Bloom Time
April, May
Design Considerations
This tree can grow to be quite large so needs space to do so. Performs best with more light than shade.
Care and Maintenance
Keep soil moist.
Pest and Diseases
No major issues.
Establishment and Propagation
Transplant when young because of deep taproot. Plant in fall or spring. Slow-growing.
Commercial Availability
Rarely available.
Alternative Plant Selections
Shagbark Hickory
Native Status
Illinois native, northern, central and southern Illinois.
Fall Color
Compound leaves turn yellow in the fall.
Growth habit
Hickories are large trees that found an oval or rounded crown when mature.
Number of Caterpillars that Use this as a Host Plant
