Hickory, Bitternut | Arboretum | SIU

This tree is one of the 150 trees initially included in the arboretum to coincide with the campus's 150th anniversary celebration.

Scientific Name:
Carya cordiformis

Cultivar:

Native to:
Quebec to Minnesota, south to Florida and Louisiana

Mature Height and Width:
50-75 feet by 30-50 feet

Additional Notes:
Bitternut hickory stands out among its relatives due to its inedibility.  Insects seldom feed on the leaves and will disappoint anyone tempted to eat one its nuts which have a characteristically bitter taste.

Photos: