Carya illinoinensis (Wang.) K. Koch
Whole plant
Family : Juglandaceae
Longevity : Perennial
Origin : Native
Season : Cool
The Pecan is the largest of the hickory tree family, reaching a height of 150 feet. It can be found growing in the South Texas Plains and the Edwards Plateau. The yellowish flowers are 3-6 inches long and have between 5 and 6 stamens. They bloom between the months of March and May. The fruit, which is a nut, ripens between September and October and grows in clusters of 2-10. The husk is thin and smooth and has a reddish brown color. The leaves are between 9 and 20 inches long. The Pecan grows best in river bottom soils. Pecans are planted as ornamentals and for their edible nuts. The nut is eaten by various wildlife, such as birds, squirrels, opossums, raccoons and peccaries. The wood can be used for furniture, flooring and fuel.
