Chinese Hickory (Carya cathayensis)

Family: Juglandaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Carya cathayensis is a deciduous Tree growing to 18 m (59ft 1in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in leaf from June to October, in flower from April to May, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Wind. The plant is self-fertile.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Late Summer, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Rich in oil. — Seed - raw or cooked.; it has a sweet flavour and is highly esteemed by the Chinese.; The seed ripens in late autumn and, when stored in its shell in a cool place, will keep for at least 6 months.; An edible oil from the seed is used in cooking.

Habitat & North American Range

Narrow moist valleys and the foot of mountains. Forests on mountain slopes, valleys, and riverbanks at elevations of 400 - 1500 metres. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)