tree

Pecan

Carya illinoinensis

Updated 4 Aug 2026 · AI-parsed entry

Pecan (Carya illinoinensis) — a tree, for Full sun, Medium water.

What it needs & gives back

↓ Needs

Lightfull sun to part sun
Watermedium to high

↑ Gives back

Shadedense shade
Mulch_biomasshigh

Through the year

Through the year

JFMAMJJASOND
emergenceBud break and leaf emergence typically occur after the last spring frost and when soil temperatures consistently reach 15°C.
floweringFlowering occurs in late spring as days lengthen and air temperatures are consistently above 18°C, typically 30 days after emergence.
fruitingFruit development begins approximately 90 days after flowering and continues through summer.
harvestNuts mature and are ready for harvest from late September through November, often triggered by the first autumn frosts which cause shuck split.
senescenceLeaves begin to senesce and drop after the first autumn frosts and as day length shortens.
dormancyTrees enter dormancy in late autumn, requiring a period of chill to break dormancy for the following spring.

Soil interactions

Drainagewell-drained
Nitrogen fixingNo
MycorrhizalYes
Accumulateszinc, potassium
Soil textureloam, sandy_loam
Organic matterHigh
Compaction toleranceLow

Propagation

Methodsseed, grafting
Difficulty3 / 5
Establishes in~5 yr
StratificationRequires cold stratification for 90-120 days at 1-5°C
Self-seedingLight
Divisionnot applicable

Wildlife & pests

Attractspollinators, wildlife
Can host pestspecan_weevil, pecan_scab
Can host diseasespecan_scab