Origins: USA, Mexico
Scienific Name: Carya Illinoinensis
Prior to European settlement, pecans were widely consumed by Native Americans and were particularly prevalent in what are now Mexico, Texas and Louisiana. The USA produces 75% of the world’s pecans, followed by Mexico at approximately 20%.
Pecans trees can live over 300 years of age and start producing seeds after 10 years. They yield the greatest harvests between 75 and 225 years. Pecan trees are monecious, meaning it is able to self-pollinate, however the best harvests are when cross-pollination has occurred. Buds are formed during the summer months, and flower the following spring. The nuts are then ready for harvest in the autumn.
