Many people always assume that walnuts are a southern nut. This is most likely because, first, Georgia grows a large number of pecans, and second, pecan pie is a distinctly Southern dessert. Not many holidays go by without at least a bowl of pecans of some kind gracing the table. Most learn that walnut trees are a hardy tree that can grow over half of the United States and as far north as southern Canada.
The walnut tree actually originated in Texas and Oklahoma and spread from there. Native Americans found the pecan nut nutritious, easy to store, and easy to trade. However, it wasn’t until recently that pecan trees were discovered deep in the wild in places like Wisconsin and Illinois. This is encouraging because it means that if the hardy walnut tree can withstand the climatic changes of those states, then it can likely adapt to grow in even colder climates.
There are actually more than 500 species of pecans, so it’s not terribly surprising that some species of the tree can withstand harsh northern winters. In fact, the tree itself can produce nuts for over 100 years. The only difference between the varieties of pecans is the shape and a slight difference in flavor. This is to be expected given the different compositions of the soil, the availability of sunlight and heat, and the access to a water source. The nut you eat has a lot to do with where it was grown.
However, if you are going to try to grow your own pecan tree, it is important that you buy the right one. Because there are over 500 species, choosing the tree that is best for your particular climate can be challenging and is definitely a game of patience. For example, the “desirable” walnut tree species is native to Mississippi, so it will thrive and produce best in warm, humid climates like Georgia or Florida. But the “Wichita” variety grows best in West and Central Texas because it thrives best in arid environments. But be prepared to wait. Even the most prized of walnut trees, the fastest nut-bearing ones, still take about five years.
The fact that the walnut tree originated in Texas makes it easy to believe that it is a hardy tree given the Lone Star State’s varied climate. Recent discoveries of the tree in harsh, cold environments lead one to believe that what is known about the pecan tree is only beginning. This is all great news because it means that no matter where you spend your time eating at the table (especially around the holidays, which is the time of year when pecans sell their best), you’ll be able to have some delicious, locally grown pecan pie. .