Shagbark Hickory vs Wayfaring Tree - TreeTime.ca

Shagbark Hickory vs Wayfaring Tree

Viburnum lantana

Carya ovata

CUSTOM GROW

COMING SOON

(new stock expected: fall of 2026)

no image
Shagbark Hickory

Wayfaring Tree is an adaptable and reliable shrub. It is prized for its ornamental berries that can range in color from red to yellow to black. Consider getting two trees as fruiting is maximized when another Wayfaring Tree is present.

This species has a variety of uses ranging from naturalization, mass planting, borders, and privacy screens.

Shagbark Hickory is a unique tree both for its looks and uses. Its bark peels into long thin vertical strips giving it a shaggy appearance. This and its golden fall leaves make it a gorgeous looking tree. This species produces tasty hickory nuts once mature. Hickory smoke is also treasured for curing meats and its generally fantastic smell.

This tree is best planted away from any buildings due to a deep taproot and large size. Many people remark on the unusual taproot for this tree that can be over 6 feet deep while the plant only has 2 feet of top growth.

Wayfaring Tree Quick Facts

Shagbark Hickory Quick Facts

Zone: 4a
Zone: 4a
Height: 3 m (10 ft)
Height: 21 m (70 ft)
Spread: 3 m (10 ft)
Spread: 12 m (40 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: any
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: slow
Life span: medium
Life span: long
Suckering: medium
Suckering: high


Bark: shaggy looking bark peels vertically in long strips
Nuts: similar to pecans
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: yes


Native to: ON, QC
Other Names: carolina hickory, scalybark hickory, shellbark hickory, upland hickory