Shagbark Hickory is immediately recognizable by its shaggy, peeling bark that separates into long, curved plates. It is a dominant tree of eastern deciduous forests and produces sweet nuts encased in thick, four-ribbed husks. The exfoliating bark provides critical roosting habitat for three species of bats that hide beneath the loose plates.
Best time to see a Shagbark Hickory
The best time to see a Shagbark Hickory is March–August, when about 60% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 14,577 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
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