Last year I found a tree growing in my yard, I’m assuming a bird or squirrel dropped the seed it started from. It’s pushing 12′ now. All Summer I’d give it a good long soaking about every week.
After looking into it I figured out it was a shag bark hickory tree.
I had about as many people telling me I should cut it down before it got big as I did telling me it was a good tree to have.
Since I’m trying to get a food forest going, I will let it grow. I have read the nuts are good to eat and have a good taste. I figure any free food is good food and I will learn as much as possible about this tree and it’s uses as possible as time goes by.
The wood from the tree puts out good heat when used as firewood I’ve read. It’s also good for use in the smoker.
It also serves many purposes from making cordage and tool handles to wood working. It also serves as food for wildlife as well as humans
All in all I consider it a win and so far I’m happy to have it as a part of our food forest. I’ve added a couple of links to information you may find useful. And if you do some searching you’ll find plenty more. Your local library or extension office will have information as well. Happy foraging!
Shagbark Hickory Nuts: Harvesting, Cracking and Cooking
Slocum's Creak 
The Shagbark Hickory is a lovely tree. We had one growing in the herb garden when I worked at a living history museum. The only drawback I could find is you might need a hard hat under it in autumn, although the squirrels quickly gather them up. =) Thanks for sharing!
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Good to know, I hear more good than bad to be honest. A couple of people have told me they break easily. But I’m looking forward to all the different kinds of things I can do with it.
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Actually, you taught me something: I wasn’t aware the nuts were edible for humans. =)
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Everything I’ve read say they are great tasting and can used in baking or eaten raw. I can hardly wait till this one starts producing.
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