Big Shellbark Hickory is an impressive tree species that is native to the eastern regions of the United States. Its scientific name is Carya laciniosa, which means "big" or "tall" in Latin. This tree is known for its massive size, with some specimens reaching up to 100 feet tall and having a trunk diameter of over 3 feet. The tree's fruits are large, edible nuts that are encased in a hard, thick shell, hence the name Shellbark Hickory. The tree is also known by several other names, including Kingnut, Bigbark Hickory, Scalybark Hickory, and Thick Shellbark Hickory. All these names depict the tree's distinct physical characteristics and contribute to its unique identity.