The Native Pecan Tree (Carya illinoinensis) is native to temperate North America and belongs to the walnut family (Juglandaceae). Pecan trees are large deciduous trees that can grow up to 20–40 meters (66–131 feet) in height, with a spread of 12–23 meters (39–75 feet). The leaves are pinnate, with 9–17 leaflets, and the fruit produced by the tree is technically a drupe—a single-seeded fruit surrounded by a husk. The pecan nut is edible and used in various recipes, including pecan pie and praline candy.

• Plant Type: Shade tree 
• Light Requirement: Full sun 
• Deciduous or Evergreen: Deciduous 
• Mature Size: Typically 70-100 feet tall, but can grow taller in ideal conditions, with a spread of 40-75 feet
• Leaf Characteristics: Alternate, pinnately compound leaves with 9-17 pointed leaflets, turning yellow-brown in the fall
• Flowering: Monoecious (separate male and female flowers on the same tree), with greenish-yellow flowers appearing in April-May
• Fruit: Edible nuts encased in a thin husk that splits open when ripe in the fall