Towering over the Ozark hills, the pignut hickory (Carya glabra) is a familiar sight in southwest Missouri. This rugged, adaptable tree thrives in dry upland forests, its presence adding a touch of rustic charm to the landscape. But for arborists and tree service professionals, the pignut hickory offers more than just scenic beauty. In this four-part blog series, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of the pignut hickory, exploring its ecological significance, potential challenges it presents to tree services, and its surprising hidden value in the timber industry.

Part 1: A Tree of Character

The pignut hickory is a medium-sized tree, typically reaching heights of 60-80 feet with a narrow crown. Its leaves, composed of 5-7 lance-shaped leaflets, boast a deep yellow fall foliage that paints the Ozarks in stunning autumnal hues. Its bark is a distinctive gray, marked with shallow cracks that form close, flattened scales. This rough exterior reflects the pignut hickory’s resilience, its ability to withstand harsh conditions and thrive in acidic, nutrient-poor soils.

For tree service professionals, the pignut hickory’s character presents both opportunities and challenges. Its strong wood makes it resistant to breakage and wind damage, but it can also pose difficulties when pruning or removing large branches. Arborists need to be familiar with the proper techniques for handling this sturdy species to ensure safe and efficient work.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll explore the ecological importance of the pignut hickory and its role in supporting a vibrant ecosystem!