Mockernut hickory has interlocking stems with flat-topped ridges that form a diamond pattern. The mockernut have compound leaves. Each leaf is around 8-12 inches long with 5-9 leaflets. The color of the leaflets are green to yellow-green in color on top and are pale green and hairy on the underside. Additionally, they are fine-coarse toothed on the leaf edges. The twigs are orange-brown, hairy and stout. Buds are large, long and hairy initially and turn white when the outer scales are shed. They have large and round fruit with a thick green husk; the fruit can grow up to 2 inches in diameter.

Mockernut Hickory belongs to the walnut family. It is called mockernut because its fruit has a very thick shell with only a tiny kernel of meat. It can be found all along the east coast. The tree is a preferred mast for wildlife including squirrels, quail, turkey, black bears, foxes, etc. Mockernut hickory trees are also quite resistant to ice or snow but the seedlings are susceptible to frost damage. It is a very popular tree for lumber.