When it comes to hickory trees, there are several different types of bark to be found. Each type of hickory tree has its own unique bark characteristics that can help identify the species. In this answer, I will describe the different types of hickory bark and provide some personal experiences and observations to give you a better understanding.
1. Shagbark Hickory (Carya ovata):
Shagbark hickory is aptly named for its shaggy bark, which peels away from the trunk in long, thin strips. I have encountered shagbark hickory trees in my own backyard, and I must say, the bark truly lives up to its name. The shaggy appearance of the bark gives the tree a rugged and distinctive look. The strips of bark can range in color from pale gray to dark brown, adding to the tree’s visual appeal.
2. Shellbark Hickory (Carya laciniosa):
Similar to shagbark hickory, shellbark hickory also has shaggy bark that peels away from the trunk. However, the strips of bark on a shellbark hickory tree tend to be thicker and more pronounced compared to shagbark hickory. I remember coming across a shellbark hickory tree during a hike in a nearby forest. The bark was so thick and rough that it felt like I was touching the shell of a turtle. The color of the bark can vary from light gray to dark brown, depending on the age of the tree.
3. Water Hickory (Carya aquatica):
Water hickory is another hickory species with shaggy bark. The bark of a water hickory tree is similar in appearance to that of shagbark and shellbark hickory, with long, thin strips peeling away from the trunk. However, the bark of water hickory tends to be smoother and less rough compared to the other two species. The color of the bark can range from light gray to reddish-brown, adding a touch of warmth to the tree’s overall appearance.
4. Mockernut Hickory (Carya tomentosa):
Unlike the previously mentioned hickory species, mockernut hickory does not have shaggy bark. Instead, the bark of a mockernut hickory tree is relatively smooth, with shallow furrows and ridges. The color of the bark can be gray to dark brown, and it often develops a rougher texture as the tree ages. I recall seeing a mature mockernut hickory tree in a park, and the smooth bark gave it a more refined and elegant look compared to the shaggy-barked hickories.
5. Pignut Hickory (Carya glabra):
Pignut hickory, similar to mockernut hickory, has relatively smooth bark with shallow furrows. The bark of a pignut hickory tree can range in color from light gray to dark brown, with some trees exhibiting a reddish tint. While the bark may not be as visually striking as that of shagbark or shellbark hickory, it still possesses its own understated beauty.
The different types of hickory bark can be categorized into shaggy bark (shagbark, shellbark, and water hickory) and smooth bark (mockernut and pignut hickory). Each type of hickory tree has its own unique bark characteristics, adding to the overall charm and diversity of these magnificent trees.
