Shagbark Hickory

The distinctive, shaggy bark, conspicuous on tall straight trees, gives this species its name. It grows well in both wet and dry areas, but prefers well-drained soils. In Ohio it is widely distributed, and probably can be found in every county. It commonly is found in association with oak trees. The wood is hard, strong, tough and elastic, and is used in handles for tools and in athletic equipment. The wood also makes excellent firewood, and often is used in smoking meat. As with other edible nuts, squirrels compete with humans for this fruit.