Pignut Hickory occurs in much of the eastern United States, in a wide range of mesic to dry upland forests. It is a highly variable species, with populations differing in leaf size, hairiness, and fruit characteristics (Weakley, et al., 2012).
Bark is tight. Leaves are smallish and generally have only five leaflets. Buds are small and lack hairs, as do the leafstalks and twigs (hence the species epithet "glabra," meaning smooth, contrasting this species with Carya tomentosa, Mockernut Hickory, which is named for its hairy or tomentose buds, leafstalks, and twigs). The fruits of Pignut Hickory are smaller than those of both Mockernut and Shagbark hickories, and usually lack wings, sometimes having a stalk-like base.
Occurs in dry woods or open pastures throughout Maryland. Very common on Bear Island and other bedrock-terrace areas of the Potomac River gorge in Montgomery County.
Has been recorded as a host plant for Banded Hairstreak.
Host plant for various species of moths including Polyphemus Moth, Pecan Leafminer Moth, Epione Underwing Moth, Oldwife Underwing Moth, Residua Underwing Moth, Yellow-gray Underwing Moth.
There are 104 records in the project database.
GA | AL | WA | FR | CL | MO | HO | BA | BC | HA | CE | PG | AA | CV | CH | SM | KE | QA | CN | TA | DO | WI | SO | WO |