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pecan

pecan

Carya illinoinensis

tree☀️ full sun💧💧 moderate waterZone 4b – Zone 9b

A large deciduous tree prized for its edible nut crop, featuring compound leaves that turn golden in fall. Requires space, warm growing conditions, and cross-pollination for best production.

Overview

Form
Rounded
Growth Rate
moderate
Size
50–120′ tall × 40–80′ wide
Dormancy
deciduous

Tolerances & Soil

low
Zone 4bZone 9b
1471013
ColderWarmer
Zone range: Zone 4b to Zone 9b

pH Range

4.57.5
7.0
3.556.589
pH range: 4.5 to 7.5

Soil Texture

Coarse, Medium, Fine

Seasonality

Bloom Season

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Harvest Season

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Season of Interest

SpringFall

Canopy

The tallest trees that form the overstory.

Succession Role

mid successionalclimax

Native to the United States

Native Range

Southeastern United States

Native to: Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Arkansas, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee

Function & Care

wildlife benefitediblewindbreak

Edible Parts

nut

Establishment & Care

Establishment
moderate
Maintenance
moderate
Years to Bearing
6 years
Propagation
seed, grafting

Notable Cultivars

Major commercial cultivars include 'Desirable', 'Pawnee', and 'Pecans 57-1', bred for crack-out quality, earlier maturity, and disease resistance respectively. 'Pawnee' is a popular choice for home gardens due to compact size and reliable production.