Species Guide
Hickory
The Basics
Species Overview
Hickory and pecan are different species of a very diverse group, but in the round (log) they are virtually indistinguishable from each other and therefore often processed by saw mills and sold mixed together.
The wood of hickory varies greatly in color, grain pattern and appearance from this very diverse group. It is fine textured and the grain is usually straight but can be wavy or irregular. The sapwood is white and maybe tinged with brown, while the heartwood is pale to yellow brown to dark in color. Deep purple mineral streaks are a natural characteristic. Bird pecks are also a common characteristic and neither is considered a defect.
Scientific Name
Carya spp
Avg. Board Length
6’ – 16’
Common Thicknesses
4/4, 5/4, 6/4, 8/4
Also Known As
Hickory, Pecan
Avg. Board Width
6” – 8”
Avg. Dried Weight
4.3 lbs/bdft
Where It Comes From
Growth Distribution
Hickory grows naturally throughout the Eastern U.S., from north to south. They are split into two groups; the more important true hickories and hickories producing pecan nuts, the latter being an important fruit-bearing tree. Trees vary in size enormously.
FIA data shows U.S. hickory growing stock is 742.3 million m3, 4.7% of total U.S. hardwood growing stock. American hickory is growing 14.6 million m3 per year while the harvest is 5.9 million m3 per year. The net volume (after harvest) is increasing 8.6 million m3 each year. U.S. hickory growth exceeds harvest in all significant producing states with the exception of Louisiana.
Hickory sawn lumber is readily available in export grades, but sold unselected for color and mixed. The NHLA FAS grade permits a minimum width of 4 inches (101.6mm). The lower NHLA grades (1 & 2 Common) can produce an attractive and fashionable rustic look. Lumber is mainly produced in thinner stock (4/4” & 5/4) although a limited amount of thicker material may be available.
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0-4K
4-8K
8-12K
12-16K
16-20K
20-24K
Volume of live trees on forest land, 1000 m³
Uses
Common Applications
Furniture, cabinetry, ladders, striking tool handles dowels and sporting goods. Traditionally used by wheelwrights and for making drumsticks. The hardwearing properties of hickory make it an excellent choice for flooring, especially in situations of high traffic use. Historically the first wooden golf club shafts were made from hickory, and NHLA lumber graders still use the traditional flexible hickory measuring stick.
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Flooring
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Tool Handles
