Carya

Carya is a genus of deciduous trees in the walnut family Juglandaceae, commonly referred to as hickories. The genus comprises several species native primarily to eastern North America, with some species found in parts of East Asia. It includes economically important trees such as the pecan (Carya illinoinensis) and several species valued for their timber and habitat.

Most Carya species are tall, fast-growing trees with pinnate leaves that typically bear 5 to 9 leaflets. The leaf margins are often serrate, and the trees produce edible nuts contained in a thick, woody husk that usually splits open at maturity. Nut size and taste vary by species and cultivar, with pecans being a prominent commercial crop in suitable climates.

Habitat and distribution vary among species, but hickories generally inhabit temperate forests, river valleys, and well-drained upland sites. They are adapted to a range of soil types, though many prefer rich, moist, but well-drained soils. Hickories are valued for both ecological roles in forests and their practical uses; some species are moderately shade-tolerant as saplings, while mature trees provide durable timber used in furniture, flooring, and sports equipment.

Notable species include Carya illinoinensis (pecan), Carya ovata (shagbark hickory), Carya cordiformis (bitternut hickory), Carya tomentosa (mockernut hickory), Carya laciniosa (shellbark hickory), and Carya glabra (pignut hickory). The genus is cultivated in appropriate climates for nut production and wood, and is also valued for restoration and ornamental planting.