treeN. America Native

Pecan

Carya illinoensis

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

960 inches

Width

720 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Very long-lived, 200+ years

Native To

Central and Southern United States

Toxicity

Roots produce juglone, which can inhibit growth of other plants

The Story

Plant Bio

A large, majestic deciduous tree in the hickory family, native to the Mississippi River valley. It is famed for its delicious, edible nuts and is valued as a stately shade tree with a massive, rounded crown. The species is distinguished by its large size, strong wood, and production of one of the most commercially important nuts native to North America. It has a deep taproot, making it very drought tolerant once established.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

The pecan tree is a magnificent, stately tree with a broad, symmetrical canopy that provides dense shade. Its grand scale makes it a commanding feature in large landscapes, parks, and rural properties, with attractive, deeply furrowed bark adding winter interest.

Its primary practical benefit is the production of delicious, high-value nuts used in a vast array of culinary applications. The wood is also hard and strong, used for furniture, flooring, and as a flavorful smoking wood for meats.

Pecan nuts are a vital food source for a wide range of wildlife, including squirrels, raccoons, foxes, and various birds like blue jays and crows. The large trees provide nesting and roosting sites for birds and other animals.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with deep, fertile, well-drained soil and full sun.
Dig a very deep hole to accommodate the long taproot.
Plant the tree at the same depth it grew in the nursery.
Backfill with soil, water deeply to eliminate air pockets.
Stake the young tree for the first year or two to keep it straight.
Water regularly and deeply for the first few years to establish the taproot.

Pro Tip

Pecans require zinc for proper nut development. Apply a foliar zinc spray several times during the early growing season for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide ample space for this very large tree to grow.
Plant at least two different cultivars for cross-pollination and good nut set.
Water deeply and regularly, especially during nut-filling stage.
Conduct a soil test and provide necessary nutrients, especially zinc.
Manage pests and diseases proactively for a good harvest.

Don't

Do not plant in shallow, compacted, or poorly drained soil.
Avoid planting near buildings or power lines due to its massive size.
Don't plant juglone-sensitive plants like tomatoes or azaleas under the canopy.
Avoid wounding the thin bark, which can lead to disease entry.
Do not expect nuts for 8-10 years on seedling trees; grafted trees are faster.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Harvest
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Majestic shade tree for large properties and parksProductive nut tree for home orchardsLong-term legacy planting for future generations

Companion Plants

Grasses (various native) Trifolium repens (White Clover) Allium cepa (Onion) Monarda (Bee Balm) Helianthus (Sunflower)

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Pecan questions

What zones can Pecan grow in?

Pecan is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Pecan deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Pecan, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Pecan bloom?

Pecan typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Pecan need full sun?

Pecan does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Pecan drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Pecan handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.