How Tall Is a Pecan Tree?

Identification

• Pecans belong to the Juglandaceae, or walnut, plant family. The pecan is a valuable nut that has provided food to indigenous Americans and wildlife for centuries. Trees take on an oval shape and grow from 70 to 100 feet tall with a spread of up to 75 feet.

Different Species of Pecans

• Most types of pecan trees grow large. The Amling pecan is a common variety that homeowners favor. Other varieties include "Candy," "Cape Fear," "Curtis," "Desirable," "Elliot," "Hican," "Oconee," "Stuart," "Sumner Papershell" and "Wildlife." The "Pawnee" pecan is a dwarf variety and grows to only 30 feet.

Growing a Pecan Tree

• If you have a large property and your weather includes long, hot summers and short, cold winters, you can grow a pecan tree. In the wild, pecans prefer the rich flood plains of rivers. They must have lots of water during their growing season; for example, a young tree needs 1 gallon daily for each year of the tree's age. If water is at a premium in your area, don't plant a pecan.