SafePlants

Nutmeg Hickory (Carya myristiciformis)

The Nutmeg Hickory, scientifically known as Carya myristiciformis, is a relatively rare member of the Juglandaceae, or Walnut family. This tree, also known as swamp hickory or bitter water hickory, is appreciated for its unique characteristics and ecological significance.

Considerations for Pets

• Produces fruit (nuts).

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Carya myristiciformis (Michx. f.) Nutt.
• Family: Juglandaceae (Walnut Family)
• Common Names: Nutmeg Hickory, Swamp Hickory, Bitter Water Hickory
• Synonyms: Carya myristicaeformis (Note the slight spelling variation)

Distribution and Habitat

• Nutmeg Hickory is found in scattered populations, including the mountains.
• It is endemic to the coastal and piedmont forests of the Southeastern United States, ranging from South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida, west to Texas, and into Northeast Mexico.
• This tree thrives in calcareous bottomlands and banks of rivers and swamps, requiring rich, moist soils.

Ecological Role

• It is noted as the rarest of all Carya species worldwide, indicating its vulnerability and conservation importance.

Morphological Characteristics

• The heartwood tends to be light to medium brown, often with a reddish hue.
• The sapwood is a paler yellowish-brown.
• It is a deciduous tree.
• Leaves are alternate, pinnately compound, typically with 7 serrated, ovate to lance-shaped leaflets. The undersides of the leaves have a silvery-golden appearance.
• Mature trees can reach heights of 80-100 feet.

Quirky Facts

• The common name “Nutmeg Hickory” is derived from its hard, nutmeg-shaped nuts.

Related Species

• The provided text mentions that the Shagbark Hickory (Carya ovata) produces the most delicious nut, and the Water Hickory (Carya aquatica) and Southern Shagbark Hickory (Carya carolinae-septentrionalis) are also related species.