This massive shade tree is the pecan producer of the industry. Lustrous, dark green foliage does not provide much fall color, but the nuts more than make up for this shortcoming. Begins to bear nuts in 6–10 years, producing an average of 70–150 pounds of nuts per year.
Best growth occurs in moist, well drained soil. It is native from Indiana and Iowa to Texas and Mexico. Grows 70-100’ high with a spread of 40-75’ at a medium rate, with height increases of 13–24” per year. Has a lifespan of 300 years or more.
Pecan trees are wind-pollinated so insect pollinators are not required to complete pollination. Cross-pollinated pecans are usually larger and higher quality than self-pollinated pecans. Self-pollination can reduce nut quality and crop yield.
The nuts are favored by squirrels, deer, raccoons, foxes, wild turkeys, woodducks, crows, bluejays and several other bird species. Larval host to the gray hairstreak.