Pecan (Carya illinoensis) is one of the better-known pecan hickories. It is also called sweet pecan and in its range where Spanish is spoken, nogal morado or nuez encarcelada. The early settlers who came to America found pecans growing over wide areas. These native pecans were and continue to be highly valued as sources of new varieties and as stock for selected clones. Besides the commercial edible nut that it produces, the pecan provides food for wildlife. Pecans are an excellent multipurpose tree for the home landscape by providing a source of nuts, furniture-grade wood, and esthetic value.
1. The Silviculture of Pecan
Pecan is, economically, the most important member of the hickory family, of the genus Carya. Pecan production is a multimillion dollar business and one of North America's favorite nuts. C. illinoensis is an excellent multipurpose tree for the home landscape because it provides nuts and grand esthetic value.
2. The Images of Pecan
Steve Nix
Forestryimages.org provides several images of parts of pecan. The tree is a hardwood and the lineal taxonomy is Magnoliopsida > Juglandales > Juglandaceae > Carya illinoensis. Pecan is also sometimes called sweet pecan and in its range where Spanish is spoken, nogal morado or nuez encarcelada.
3. The Range of Pecan
USFS
Pecan grows principally in the lower Mississippi Valley. Within this region it extends westward to eastern Kansas and central Texas, eastward to western Mississippi and western Tennessee. Sparse occurrence has been reported along the eastern margin of its range from southwestern Ohio to Kentucky and Alabama. Pecan also grows locally throughout northeastern and central Mexico.
4. Pecan at Virginia Tech
Leaf: Alternate, pinnately compound with 9 to 15 finely serrate and often curved leaflets, 12 to 18 inches long.Twig: Moderately stout, light brown, fuzzy (particularly when young); leaf scars large and three lobed; buds are yellowish brown to brown, hairy, with terminal buds 1/4 to 1/2 inch long.
