Carya illinoinensis var. commercial varieties Pecan is a tall, straight-trunked tree, native to south-central North America. It is a deciduous tree, reaching a height of 65-130 ft. The leaves are pinnate with 9-17 leaflets and can grow up to 2 ft long. The flowers are wind-pollinated and monoecious. The fruit is an oval to oblong nut, 1-2.5 in long and 0.5-1 in broad. The nut has a buttery flavor and is commonly used in sweet desserts, especially as the main ingredient in pecan pies. The wood is also used in furniture and hardwood flooring. Pecans prefer a deep, moisture-retentive loam in a sunny sheltered position and require a good summer for best development. Although they are not very hardy in Britain, they can grow in hotter climates. If you're looking for a delicious and versatile nut, try Carya illinoinensis var. commercial varieties Pecan.