Hickory trees are one of the most versatile trees found in Illinois. Not only do they provide shade and beauty, but they are also great for producing wood products.
In this blog post, we will discuss each type of hickory tree that is found in Illinois, as well as some of the different uses for each.
1. Shagbark Hickory
The shagbark hickory is a type of hickory tree that grows in Illinois. This tree is known for its shaggy bark, which is why it’s named the shagbark hickory. The shagbark hickory is also known for its delicious nuts, which are popular among humans and animals alike.
This tree grows to be about 50-60 feet tall and has a lifespan of around 100 years. If you’re looking for a durable, long-lasting tree to add to your property, the shagbark hickory is a great option!
2. Water Hickory
The water hickory is a type of hickory tree that grows in Illinois. This tree is known for its drought resistance and ability to thrive in wet, swampy conditions. The water hickory is also a popular choice for use in landscaping and construction projects due to its strong wood.
The water hickory is a medium to large sized tree that can grow up to 50 feet tall. The leaves of this tree are dark green and have a waxy texture.
The bark of the water hickory is light brown and smooth. This tree produces small, edible nuts that are beloved by squirrels and other animals.
If you are looking for a drought resistant tree for your property, the water hickory is a great option. This tree is also a good choice if you need a strong wood for a construction or landscaping project.
3. Pignut Hickory
The pignut hickory is a type of hickory tree that grows in Illinois. This tree is known for its strong wood, which is used in a variety of applications.
The pignut hickory is also a popular choice for use as a firewood.
4. Shellbark Hickory
The Shellbark Hickory tree is a type of hickory tree that grows in Illinois. This type of hickory tree is known for its large, edible nuts. The Shellbark Hickory tree can grow to be over 100 feet tall and has a lifespan of over 200 years.
The nuts from this type of hickory tree are popular among squirrels, birds, and humans alike.
The Shellbark Hickory tree is a deciduous tree, meaning it loses its leaves every year. The leaves of the Shellbark Hickory tree are large and have a deep green color.
The fall season brings about a change in the leaf color, as they turn to a yellow-brown hue before falling off the tree.
The nuts of the Shellbark Hickory tree are edible for humans and animals alike. The taste of the nut has been described as being sweet and rich. If you’re looking for a tasty treat that is also good for you, look no further than the Shellbark Hickory nut!
5. Mockernut Hickory
The mockernut hickory is a type of hickory tree that grows in Illinois. This tree can grow to be up to 100 feet tall and is known for its hard, durable wood. The mockernut hickory’s wood is used in making furniture, flooring, and other wood products.
The nuts of this tree are also edible and are often used in baking or as a snack.
The mockernut hickory is a deciduous tree, meaning that it loses its leaves each year. In Illinois, the leaves of this tree usually turn yellow or brown in the fall before they are lost.
The bark of the mockernut hickory is light gray and smooth, with darker streaks running through it. This tree blooms in the springtime, with small greenish-yellow flowers that grow in clusters. The fruits of the mockernut hickory are small, round nuts that are enclosed in a thick shell.
If you are looking for a hardwood tree to use for woodworking projects or to add to your landscape, the mockernut hickory may be a good option for you.
This tree is relatively common in Illinois and can be found growing in many different types of habitats.
Conclusion
There are five main types of hickory trees that grow in Illinois – shagbark, water, pignut, shellbark, and mockernut. Each type of hickory tree has its own unique benefits and uses.
I hope this blog post has been informative in helping you learn about the different types of hickory trees in Illinois.
