Climate matters. This page is a practical baseline. Confirm cultivar, local frost/heat conditions, mature size and regional restrictions before planting.
Pecan — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Carya illinoinensis |
|---|---|
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 2190–3650 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 914.4–1828.8 |
| Mature height (cm) | 1219.2–2438.4 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 914.4–1828.8 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 5–9 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | Transplant |
Growing directions
Pecans are protandrous or protogynous depending on variety — pollen shed and receptive female flowers rarely overlap on the same tree — so always plant at least two cultivars of opposite types (Type I with Type II) to ensure cross-pollination. Northern varieties (Hark, Kanza, Lakota) are bred for shorter growing seasons and suit zones 5–7; southern varieties need 250+ frost-free days. Pecans are heavy zinc feeders; apply zinc foliar spray in spring if leaves show rosette symptoms. Harvest when shucks split open in autumn and nuts fall freely.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0