Pecan
Carya illinoinensis · Deciduous broadleaf hardwood
Plant Family
Juglandaceae
Tree Category
Nut tree and shade tree
Variety / Cultivar
Wild type / Native species
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 5 through 9
About This Tree
A large, majestic deciduous tree with a spreading, rounded canopy, strong branching structure, and a relatively fast growth rate under optimal conditions. Known for producing valuable edible nuts and high-quality timber.
Leaf Characteristics
Pinnately compound leaves, typically 9 to 17 leaflets, alternate arrangement, lanceolate to oblong-lanceolate shape, finely serrated margins, dark green on top and paler underneath, turning yellow to brown in autumn.
Bark Characteristics
Gray to brown bark that becomes rough, furrowed, and develops scaly plates or narrow ridges with deep fissures as the tree ages
Growing Information
Origin Region
South-central North America, particularly the Mississippi River valley and parts of Mexico
Growing Season
Spring leaf-out, flowering in spring, nut production and maturation in autumn, dropping leaves and entering dormancy in late fall
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun preferred; moderate to high water needs especially during establishment and nut development, with good deep-root drought tolerance once mature
Mature Size
Height of 70 to 100 feet, spread of 40 to 75 feet, moderate to fast growth rate, and a long lifespan exceeding 100 to 300 years
Special Characteristics
Highly valued for edible pecan nuts and dense hardwood timber, moderate drought and pollution tolerance, with attractive yellow fall foliage
Wildlife & Ecology
Supports a wide variety of wildlife including squirrels, turkeys, and other birds that consume the nuts, and serves as a host plant for various moth caterpillars and insect pollinators