Bitternut Hickory
Scientific name: Carya cordiformis
Overview
Bitternut Hickory is a large deciduous hardwood native to eastern North America and is among the most widely distributed members of the hickory family. The species is named for its distinctly bitter nuts, which are generally considered unsuitable for human consumption but provide an important food source for wildlife.
The wood possesses many of the characteristics associated with hickories, including strength, toughness, and excellent shock resistance. Although it is somewhat lighter and less commercially valued than certain other hickory species, Bitternut Hickory remains an important source of durable hardwood lumber used in flooring, furniture, tool handles, and general woodworking applications.
Within the North American hardwood cluster, Bitternut Hickory represents one of the most widespread and adaptable hickory species.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Bitternut Hickory
- Scientific Name: Carya cordiformis
- Region: North American Hardwoods (Eastern North America)
- Tree Size: 50–100 ft tall, 2–4 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 47 lbs/ft³ (755 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 1,820 lbf
- Color: Pale brown to reddish brown
- Grain: Generally straight
- Texture: Medium
Identification Characteristics
Bitternut Hickory is identified by its pale brown coloration, prominent growth rings, and durable structure. The wood closely resembles other hickory species but is often somewhat lighter in weight and color.
Finished surfaces display a clean appearance with moderate natural luster and the characteristic grain patterns associated with the hickory group.
Key identification traits include:
- Pale brown to reddish-brown coloration
- Distinct growth rings
- Medium texture
- Generally straight grain
- Dense and durable feel
- Good shock resistance
- Strong wear resistance
- Moderate natural luster
Working Properties
Bitternut Hickory is moderately difficult to work due to its density and toughness. However, it performs well in applications where strength and durability are important.
- Machines moderately difficult
- Can dull cutting tools over time
- Good bending properties
- Strong nail and screw holding
- Turns well
- Accepts stains and finishes effectively
- Good wear resistance
- High strength and durability
Safety Note
Wood dust from Bitternut Hickory may cause irritation in sensitive individuals. Proper dust collection and respiratory protection are recommended during woodworking operations.
Common Uses
Bitternut Hickory common uses including:
- Flooring
- Furniture
- Tool handles
- Cabinetry
- Interior millwork
- Sporting equipment
- Woodturning
- Agricultural implements
- Decorative woodworking
- Collector wood samples
Sustainability & Notes
Bitternut Hickory is found throughout much of eastern North America and is commonly associated with moist bottomlands, stream banks, and mixed hardwood forests. The species is adaptable to a variety of growing conditions and plays an important role in forest ecosystems.
The tree’s bitter nuts are generally avoided by humans but are consumed by various wildlife species. Although not always harvested separately from other hickories, Bitternut Hickory contributes to the commercial hickory lumber supply used throughout North America.
Its combination of strength, durability, and broad distribution has made it an important native hardwood for generations.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Shagbark Hickory – Known for its distinctive bark, strong wood, and highly valued edible nuts.
Mockernut Hickory – One of the densest and strongest hickory species used in demanding applications.
Pecan – A member of the hickory family valued for both nut production and attractive hardwood lumber.
Related Guides
Wood Collecting & Preservation
Learn how collectors preserve, document, and organize wood samples for long-term study and reference.
How to Identify Wood Grain Patterns
Learn how grain structure can help identify wood species and predict working characteristics.
Understanding Wood Strength: What Makes Wood Strong?
Learn how density, cellular structure, and grain orientation contribute to durability and structural performance.
Compare Wood Properties
See how this species ranks in density and hardness using our Wood Density & Janka Hardness Chart. You can also explore Hardest Woods, Softest Woods, and Most Dense Woods for quick comparisons.
Collector Notes
Bitternut Hickory samples are valued for representing one of North America’s most widespread native hickories. Well-prepared specimens often display attractive growth ring patterns and the dense structure characteristic of the hickory family.
The species is especially important within hardwood collections because it demonstrates the strength and durability for which hickories are known while representing a distinct member of one of North America’s most significant hardwood groups.
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Wood Sample Collection
This species is part of an ongoing effort to document and preserve wood samples from around the world.
Learn more about contributing to the collection:
Resources
Authoritative botanical and forestry references used in compiling information about this species include:
• USDA Forest Service – Wood Handbook: Wood as an Engineering Material
https://www.fpl.fs.usda.gov/products/publications/
• The Wood Database – Global reference for wood identification, physical properties, and woodworking characteristics
https://www.wood-database.com/
• Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – Plants of the World Online – Botanical taxonomy and species distribution database
https://powo.science.kew.org/
• International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN Red List) – Global conservation status assessments
https://www.iucnredlist.org/
• Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) – International trade regulations for protected plant species
https://cites.org/
Additional forestry publications, academic research papers, and regional timber studies may also be referenced where available.
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Availability & Where to Buy
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As this archive grows, recommended suppliers and specialty wood retailers will be listed here to help woodworkers locate responsibly sourced material.
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