Do you recognize this remarkable tree?

Do you recognize me? I am a tall tree of a species that is rare in Quebec, since this region marks the northern limit of my native range. I am the shagbark hickory tree. If you take a walk through Deschênes Forest, you’ll have the chance to see me along the water’s edge or along the bike path. Otherwise, you’ll have to go to Montreal or Ontario to find me.

I’m easily recognized by my bark, which peels off in large sheets. It’s very distinctive and makes it easy to tell me apart from my cousin, the bitternut hickory tree, which is more common. Unlike the bitternut hickory, my nuts are edible—and squirrels love them.

Out of ignorance, people sometimes strip off my bark to burn it by the river in the summer. Even though I’m sturdy, my bark protects me. Please don’t take it away, because that wound could be fatal to me!

I invite you to come see me in the spring: you can admire my lovely buds as they swell to 5 to 7 cm in length.