Shagbark Hickory
Carya ovata · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern United States and Southeast Canada.
- Hardness
- 1,880 lbf (Very Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable to Perishable. It has very low resistance to rot and is susceptible to insect attack, particularly powderpost beetles.
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Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be wavy or irregular. The texture is coarse with a cathedral figure when flat-sawn. End grain shows large, ring-porous earlywood pores.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is tan to reddish-brown; sapwood is pale yellowish-white. Often sold together as 'Calico Hickory.' It darkens slightly with age to a more golden hue.
Hardness (Janka)
1,880 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Perishable. It has very low resistance to rot and is susceptible to insect attack, particularly powderpost beetles.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Approximately $4.00 - $7.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The log is from a limb or young tree approximately 15-25 years old based on ring count; the sample appears freshly split within the last few months.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and sustainable in its native range.
Common Uses
Tool handles (axes, hammers), ladder rungs, wheel spokes, flooring, cabinetry, furniture, and fuel/smoking wood for meats.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Southeast Canada.
Workability
Difficult to work with hand tools due to extreme hardness/density. It has a high blunting effect on cutters. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though pre-boring for screws is mandatory.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well. Penetrating oils (tung or linseed) highlight the grain, while polyurethane provides necessary protection for high-wear flooring use.
Notable Features
Exhibits iconic 'shaggy' bark that peels in long strips. Known for exceptional shock resistance and strength. Emits a distinct, pleasant fragrance when burned.
