In Virginia, when wanting to identify a Mockernut Hickory from other hickories the species name helps out. Carya tomentosa. To be tomentose means to be densely covered in short, woolly hairs. And you will find that is true of both its young twigs and the leaf petioles. Combine that with tight bark, usually 7 - 9 leaflets and a thick husk on the edible nut and you land comfortably with an ID of Mockernut Hickory.

Location: Burke Lake Park, Fairfax County, VA