Carya illinoinensis (Pecan) Life
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Eurosid I > Order: Fagales > Family: Juglandaceae
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Pecan nuts. [photo H. Robertson, Iziko
©] |
Indigenous from south-eastern USA through to eastern Mexico. Pecans
were harvested by indigenous North American tribes well before the
arrival of European settlers in the 1500's. They were introduced to
Spain in the 1600's and are now grown in all temperate regions of the
world although the USA remains the main producer. Pecans have a high fat
content (about 71%) but most of it is unsaturated (the more healthy
type). They are an excellent source of phosphorus, thiamin, copper and
zinc, and a good source of iron and potassium.
The indigenous distribution of Carya illinoinensis is
in south-eastern USA including the lower and middle Mississippi Valley and
through to eastern Mexico. It thrives in open woodlands on river flood plains
that are well drained. Trees can live for hundreds of years and reach 50 m in
height with a trunk diameter of 2 metres. Pecans were harvested by indigenous
North American tribes
well before the arrival of European settlers in the 1500's. They were introduced
to Spain in the 1600's and are now grown in all temperate regions of the world
although the USA remains the main producer. Within the USA, Georgia produces
more than a third of total US production, the latter of which totals about 200
000 unshelled pecans annually.
Pecans have a high fat content (about 71%) but most of it
is unsaturated (the more healthy type). They are an excellent source of
phosphorus, thiamin, copper and zinc, and a good source of iron and potassium.
Uses
- Pecans are often eaten as a snack - raw or roasted.
- They are used extensively in baking (e.g. muffins,
cakes).
- Pecan pie is a popular recipe.
References
-
Sauer, J.D. 1993. Historical geography of
crop plants - a select roster. CRC Press, Boca Raton, Florida.
Text by Hamish G. Robertson
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