The Mockernut Hickory (Carya tomentosa) is a deciduous tree native to the eastern United States. It typically grows between 60 to 100 feet tall and features a thick, furrowed bark. The leaves are compound, consisting of five to seven leaflets, and turn yellow in the fall. This tree produces large, sweet nuts that are encased in a hard shell, making them a food source for wildlife. Mockernut Hickory thrives in well-drained soils and is often found in mixed hardwood forests. It is valued for its strong, dense wood, which is used in furniture making and flooring. The tree also plays a role in the ecosystem by providing habitat and food for various species.