Plant Profile: Carya illinoinensis

The hardy pecan, a native shade tree belonging to the Juglandaceae family, is the largest member of the hickory group. Primarily cultivated for its delectable edible nuts, which emerge in the summer following a rather inconspicuous flowering, this tree's pollination is a crucial consideration when selecting pecan varieties. Pecan trees are monoecious, meaning they possess distinct male and female flowers on the same tree. However, pollen is not released during the receptive phase of the flowers, which limits pollination both within and among the same cultivars. For effective pollination, cultivars are categorized into type I and type II. To achieve optimal cross-pollination, NC State Extension advises planting at least three different cultivars, ensuring that at least one of each pollination type is included. Type I cultivars consist of ‘Cape Fear’ and ‘Pawnee,’ while type II includes ‘Stuart,’ ‘Sumner,’ ‘Forkert,’ ‘Gloria Grande,’ ‘Kiowa,’ ‘Chickasaw,’ and ‘Elliot.’ Each cultivar has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, so thorough research is recommended before making a purchase.

In the northern regions of its growth range, nut production may be diminished, particularly if spring arrives late and summer temperatures remain cool. Transplanting can be challenging due to the tree's deep taproot, so it is essential to select a planting site with its substantial mature size in mind. While it is possible to grow pecans from seed, it may take nearly ten years before the tree yields a significant harvest. Pecans can be planted in proximity to black walnut trees without issue. This species requires a moderate level of maintenance and is best suited for larger properties due to its size.

**Seasons of Interest:**
- **Fruit:** Summer to fall, producing nuts.

**Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:**
Pecan trees may face challenges from pests such as aphids, pecan weevils, twig girdlers, and fall webworms. Additionally, scab can affect both the nuts and foliage, although resistant cultivars are available. The branches of pecan trees are known to be brittle and susceptible to breakage, and late frosts can negatively impact nut production.

**Quick Identification Hints:**
Pecan trees can grow as tall as 130 feet, though they typically reach heights of 70 to 100 feet with a spread of 40 to 75 feet. As the largest of the hickories, this deciduous tree features a symmetrical, broadly oval crown and extensive branching. Major limbs extend upward and outward from the trunk in a distinctive, spreading manner. On mature trees, the lower branches tend to sweep wide, with their tips nearly grazing the ground. The trunks can attain diameters of up to six feet.

This tree thrives in full sun to partial shade and is adaptable to well-drained clay, sandy loam, and both alkaline and acidic soils. It also exhibits high drought tolerance.

**Native to North America.**