Hardy Pecan Tree

Carya illinoinensis

Nature Hills Nursery

Cold-Hardy Pecan Selection Thrives Where Traditional Varieties Fail
Thrives in Zones 5-9
Native, Pollinator-Friendly - Attracts Small Mammals and Songbirds
Stunning Yellow Fall Foliage
Showy Green Blooms in Early Spring

$118³²

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Plant Size

Product variants

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Cold hardy, Native, Flowering, Edible, Ornamental Berries/Fruit, Thornless, Drought resistant, Heat Tolerant, Fragrant, Fast-growing
Hardiness Zone	5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b
Sunlight	Full sun
Height	70-90 ft
Width	40-75 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Preferred Soil	Clay, Loamy, Sandy
Growth Rate	Moderate
Blooms In	Spring
Flower Color	Green
Native	Yes
Suitable Space	Outdoors
Botanical Name	Carya illinoinensis
Species	illinoinensis
Class	Fagales
Does Not Ship To	AK, AZ, CA, HI, ID, MT, PR

The Hardy Pecan (Carya illinoinensis) is a large native shade tree known for its adaptability to cold climates, its aesthetic beauty, and the production of the popular Pecan nut that is both delicious and nutritious. This tree is a native of the United States primarily found in the Mississippi River Valley regions and its tributaries. It is ideally suited to larger landscapes and commercial plantings.

Greenish-yellow male flowers are pendulous catkins that appear in the early spring. In the growing season, the lovely, pinnate compound leaves are comprised of medium-green leaflets. The leaves eventually turn a harvest gold color for fall, known to lose its foliage, the shade value of this tree continues late into the season until the nuts begin to ripen!

While in nature a pollinator isn't required because there are plenty of these trees around, in your landscape, a second tree will increase pollination and improve your harvest of Pecans to enjoy! Pecans fall into two categories, either Type I or Type II, but because of the native variability of these trees it is difficult to know which the Hardy Pecan is. For the best nut production, you'll want to plant two of them and consider adding another variety.

Ornamental features include the attractive bark, which is a slate-grey color and has a lightly fissured texture. Hardy Pecan is a long-lived tree with a life span of well over 75 years! Though an abundant producer, please note that it can take 7 to 15 years to produce nuts. Hardy throughout USDA growing zones 5 through 9, these trees are remarkable for their cold resistance and heat tolerance.

Planting and Application:

This tree adds a delicate texture and lush shade because of the large, rounded canopy. Hardy Pecan is a wonderful choice for residential plantings as well as parks, golf courses, business complexes or anywhere a large shade tree is desired. The Hardy Pecan is truly a multipurpose windbreak or shelterbelt tree. It will be an attractive shade tree for your home, the city park or planted in an orchard with fruit trees to enjoy the eventual added benefit of a delicious fall harvest.

This is the ideal shade tree for the larger yard with a huge added benefit of edible nuts! You'll love the edible landscaping possibilities these lovely nut trees provide! Plant it along creek beds as a welcome addition to a food forest. This native tree has admirers in the natural world and provides habitat to many species of wildlife and Host Plant to multiple varieties of moth larvae.

American Indians are known to have cultivated pecans as far back as the 1500s. The Spanish took the Pecan to Europe in the 16th century. Thomas Jefferson recognized the value of the "Illinois Nut" and planted many at his home at Monticello in the 1700s. He even shared them with friends like George Washington.

Despite all of the early interest, it would not be until the late 1800s that commercial production of pecans began in the United States. They are rich in antioxidants and are reported to have many possible health benefits.

The tree produces the classic, thin-shelled pecan that is popular throughout the world. The nuts have a thin husk and split into four sections when ripe in September through November.

Pecans are a tasty snack and versatile for cooking in a variety of dishes. Even the wood of the tree is valued for making furniture or as fuel that adds smoked flavor to meats. Don't forget the All-American Pecan Pie that adorns Holiday tables across the country.

Large Deciduous Shade Tree With Green Compound Leaves
Largest of the Hickories!
Long-Lived Stately Native Tree
Rich Flavored Edible Nuts
Beautiful Yellow Fall Color
Historic & Wildlife Importance
Needs Pollination Partner - Plant Multiple Trees To Increase Harvest

#ProPlantTips for Care:

Give Pecan Trees a spot in full sun for best results. When you do your tree planting, plan to give a moderate amount of regular water during the first season and consistent moisture in a site with rich, well-drained soils. Provide young trees with a thick layer of mulch over the root system to help during drought, but these trees can be drought-tolerant once established. Prune if needed when dormant.

Pecans like humid conditions with an extended warm late season to ripen the nuts. Although it will grow into a beautiful tree, its production may be limited in coastal areas like western Washington state, Western Oregon, or the upper reaches of Zone 5.

Full Sun Trees
Well-Drained Soil
Moderate Yet Regular Moisture
Appreciates Mulched Beds
Prune When Dormant
Drought-Tolerant & Scab-Resistant

Hardy Pecan is a tree that never stops giving. The native Hardy Pecan Tree provides shade and a bountiful harvest awaits you when you order one of these wonderful southern landmark trees! Now shipping from Nature Hills Nursery! Order today and get started with this beautiful, historical, interesting, and oh-so-useful native Hardy Pecan!

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protect your trees

Most critters will leave your trees alone if you hang a Frangrant bar of soap on it. They don't like the perfumey scent!Thank you Nature Hills! My trees came in perfect condition & are growing as I write!

Dear Deb,

Thank you so much for sharing your helpful tip about using fragrant bars of soap to keep critters away—what a clever, natural solution! We're delighted to hear that your Hardy Pecan Trees arrived in perfect condition and are thriving as you write. It always brings us joy to know our trees find good homes and grow strong under the care of passionate gardeners like you.

If you ever need additional advice on caring for your pecan trees or safeguarding them against pests and wildlife, feel free to explore our care guides or reach out. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

protect your trees

Hi Deb,

Thank you so much for sharing your valuable tip and kind words! We’re thrilled to hear your Hardy Pecan Trees arrived in perfect condition and are thriving as you write. Using a fragrant bar of soap to naturally deter critters is such a clever and eco-friendly method — thank you for passing along that practical advice to our community!

If you ever need more tips on maintaining your pecan trees or dealing with local pests, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We also have detailed care guides on our site that might be handy as your trees continue to grow.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Nut trees

My Pecan tree has grown fast and I hope it will begin bearing pecans in he near future. I read the review from 2010 and I am going to use the metal strip, with the petroleum jelly, to protect against caterpillars. Don't know if I have any but I don't want them either.

Hi Jake,

Thank you so much for sharing your update on your Hardy Pecan Tree! We’re delighted to hear it’s growing fast and that you’re anticipating pecans in the near future—that’s always such a rewarding milestone. Your plan to use the metal strip and petroleum jelly to help protect against caterpillars is a smart preventative measure. Even if you don’t see any pests yet, this is a great way to keep the tree healthy and minimize damage.

If you do notice any caterpillars or other pests later on, another tip is to inspect the tree regularly and apply organic insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed—both methods can help keep feeding insects in check without harming your tree’s growth. Also, providing plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil will encourage strong, healthy nut production as your tree matures.

Please feel free to reach out if you have any other questions or need more specific advice. We’re here to support your journey every step of the way!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Nut trees

Hi Jake,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with your Hardy Pecan Tree! It's wonderful to hear that it’s growing quickly—pecan trees can be such a rewarding addition to any garden. You’re right that protecting against caterpillars early is a smart move, even if you haven't spotted any yet. The metal strip and petroleum jelly trick is a tried-and-true method that creates an effective barrier. Just be sure to check it regularly and reapply the jelly if it starts to dry out, to keep pests at bay.

As your tree continues to mature, ensure it receives plenty of sunlight, well-drained soil, and proper watering to encourage healthy growth and, eventually, nut production. You might also consider a light fertilization in spring to give it a little extra boost.

If you ever have more questions or want updates on caring for your pecan tree, please don't hesitate to reach out. It’s a joy to be part of your growing journey!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Good appearance

My tree arrived in excellent shape and it was boxed very well.

Hello Jennie,

Thank you so much for sharing your positive feedback! We’re delighted to hear that your Hardy Pecan Tree arrived in excellent shape and that the packaging met your expectations. We take great care in ensuring our plants are well-protected during transit, and it’s wonderful to know our efforts helped your new tree journey safely to you.

As you care for your pecan tree, remember to plant it in a location with full sun and well-drained soil to help it thrive. Regular watering and seasonal mulching can also encourage healthy growth and nut production in the years to come.

If you ever have questions about pecan tree care or want tips on making your tree flourish, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to support your growing garden dreams every step of the way.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Frequently Asked Questions

How far should I space the Hardy Pecan Tree from other trees or structures?

Plant Hardy Pecan trees at least 40-50 feet from structures and other large trees. These trees develop massive, rounded canopies that need ample space to reach their full potential as shade trees. For best nut production, space multiple pecans 30-40 feet apart to allow for cross-pollination.

What is the best time of year to plant a Hardy Pecan Tree?

Plant Hardy Pecan trees in early spring after the last frost or in fall before ground freezes. These zone 5-9 trees establish best when dormant, giving roots time to develop before active growth. Shop at Nature Hills for quality specimens ready for your landscape.

What type of soil does the Hardy Pecan Tree need—does it require well-draining soil?

Hardy Pecan trees thrive in well-draining, deep soils and are quite adaptable to various soil types. These native trees tolerate both clay and sandy soils but perform best with good drainage to prevent root rot. Plant in full sun and ensure adequate space for the large, rounded canopy to develop.

How much sun exposure does the Hardy Pecan Tree require?

Hardy Pecan Trees require full sun exposure for optimal growth and nut production. These large shade trees need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily to develop their expansive canopy and produce abundant harvests. Plant in an open location away from competing trees or structures that could block sunlight.

What fertilizer schedule does the Hardy Pecan Tree need, like nitrogen amounts?

Hardy Pecan trees benefit from balanced fertilizer in early spring before bud break, with young trees needing more frequent feeding than established ones. Apply 10-10-10 fertilizer at 1 pound per inch of trunk diameter. Shop at Nature Hills for quality Hardy Pecan trees suited for zones 5-9.

Do you ship Hardy Pecan Trees bareroot or in containers, and what are the shipping costs?

Hardy Pecan Trees are typically shipped bareroot during dormant season (late fall through early spring) or in containers during the growing season. Shipping costs vary by location and tree size, with bareroot options generally being more economical. Check the product page for current shipping options and rates to your zone 5-9 location.

Is the Hardy Pecan Tree cold-hardy enough for my zone, and how do I protect it in winter?

The Hardy Pecan Tree thrives in USDA zones 5-9 with remarkable cold resistance. This native tree typically doesn't need winter protection once established, as it's naturally adapted to harsh climates. Plant in a sheltered location for younger trees.

Hardy Pecan Tree

Carya illinoinensis