Pecan
Carya illinoinensis
Also listed as Carya oliviformis, Carya pecan
Also known as Pecan-nut, Hardy Pecan, Sweet Pecan
Climate Match for your location
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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.
Why grow it
Pecan trees produce a higher-calorie nut crop than most temperate alternatives and require less annual pruning or pest management than many fruit trees once established. Compared to black walnut, pecans offer a milder flavor and easier processing. They're well-suited to deep, well-drained soils in warm climates where hickories or other nut crops may struggle to produce reliably.
Watch out for
Nut production can be erratic in marginal climates or when winter chill requirements aren't fully met. The large canopy and deep root system mean pecans are slow to mature (5-10 years) and need adequate space away from buildings and utilities. Fallen nuts and debris require regular cleanup, and the tree's substantial size makes selective harvesting difficult without mechanical aids.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Juglandaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Southeastern United States
Native to: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia
Seasonality
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
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.
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
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.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Pecan grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Pecan trees produce a higher-calorie nut crop than most temperate alternatives and require less annual pruning or pest management than many fruit trees once established. Compared to black walnut, pecans offer a milder flavor and easier processing. They're well-suited to deep, well-drained soils in warm climates where hickories or other nut crops may struggle to produce reliably.
Watch out for
Nut production can be erratic in marginal climates or when winter chill requirements aren't fully met. The large canopy and deep root system mean pecans are slow to mature (5-10 years) and need adequate space away from buildings and utilities. Fallen nuts and debris require regular cleanup, and the tree's substantial size makes selective harvesting difficult without mechanical aids.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Juglandaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Southeastern United States
Native to: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia
Seasonality
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
Similar canopy trees you might consider:
Enter your ZIP code to see top native species and strong climate fits for you.
Companion Planting
Plants well with
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.