Nutmeg Hickory (Carya myristiciformis)

Family: Juglandaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Carya myristiciformis is a deciduous Tree growing to 30 m (98ft 5in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in leaf from June to October, in flower from April to May. 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. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Late Summer, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Sweet, but with a thick shell. — Seed - raw or cooked.; Sweet, but with a thick shell.; The seed is up to 3cm in diameter.; The seed ripens in late autumn and, when stored in its shell in a cool place, will keep for at least 6 months.

Habitat & North American Range

Banks of rivers and swamps in rich moist soils, occasionally on higher ground and often on limestone. (Zone 8)