Shellbark Hickory

Common Names

Kingnut

Big Shellbark

Bottom Shellbark

Western Shellbark

Big Shagbark Hickory 

Scientific Names

History of
the Tree Species

Once a common tree in the midwestern U.S. and among the first trees settlers discovered after arriving

Played a key role in U.S. early development as wood was used for gunstocks, ramrods, and tool handles

Also provided food on the frontier and used medicinally 

Scientific Facts

Short, stout limbs, narrow crown, and shaggy bark

Bears great-tasting hickory nuts, which were a key food source for Native Americans

Parts of tree used for treating common colds and polio pain

Also used as a diaphoretic and emetic

Bark used as a dressing for cuts