What Are Some Fun Facts About Pecans?

The only major tree nut that grows naturally in North America, the pecan is considered one of the most valuable North American nut species. The name “pecan” is a Native American word of Algonquin origin that was used to describe “all nuts requiring a stone to crack.”

What is a fact about the pecan tree?

Pecan trees lives for 300 years. They can grow to over 150 ft tall and have trunks that measure over 3 feet in diameter. 90% of all pecans are grown in the United States. April 14th is National Pecan Day in the United States.

Why are they called pecans?

The word pecan is derived from the Algonquin tribe’s word “pacane” which translates to “nuts requiring a stone to crack”. Native Americans were the first to cultivate and utilize wild pecans and their trees.

Why are pecans so popular?

The pecan is the only tree nut native to North America. Its buttery flavor and unmatched nutritional content have resulted in its growing worldwide popularity.

What poison is in pecans?

Toxins In Pecans
Pecans contain a toxin called juglone. If they get moldy, pecans can cause seizures and neurological symptoms due to their production of tremorgenic mycotoxins. More dangerous still, pecans are tree nuts that contain a natural poison called aflatoxin.

How old is the oldest pecan tree?

A true treasure in Highland Park was the grand old pecan tree on Armstrong Parkway at Preston Road. This mammoth tree was approximately 75 feet wide by 75 feet tall and was over 140 years old.

Did you know about pecans?

The name “pecan” is a Native American word of Algonquin origin that was used to describe “all nuts requiring a stone to crack.” Originating in central and eastern North America and the river valleys of Mexico, pecans were widely used by pre-colonial residents.

Can dogs eat pecans?

No, dogs cannot eat pecans safely. If they happen to eat one or two, it’s unlikely they will suffer any adverse effects. However, eating pecans containing toxic mold can be harmful to your pup. Therefore, it’s best to avoid letting your dog eat pecans altogether.

What language is pecan?

Algonquin language
The name pecans come from the Algonquin language of the Native Americans. The word pecan translates to something which requires a stone to crack.

Why are pecans so expensive?

Pecan farmers say bad weather and demand from China are forcing prices up. The price of pecans is going up, up, up, which may mean that if you’re planning a pecan pie for Thanksgiving, the time to buy them is now. The reasons behind that escalating price all come down to natural forces: supply and demand and weather.

Which nut is expensive?

macadamias
Macadamia nuts are the world’s most expensive nuts. The farmland for growing macadamias is worth millions of dollars and the price only keeps increasing. The nuts can only thrive in certain climates and are imported on a massive-scale at high prices to countries who can’t seem to get enough of the fatty nuts.

Are pecans good for you?

Raw pecans pack a 1-2-3 punch of protein, healthy fats, and fiber that can help keep you energized and satisfied. Pecans are a good source of calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which help lower blood pressure. Most of the fat found in pecans is a healthy type called monounsaturated fat.

Who discovered the pecan?

Pecans first became known to Europeans in the 16th century. The first Europeans to come into contact with pecans were Spanish explorers in what is now Louisiana, Texas, and Mexico. These Spanish explorers called the pecan, nuez de la arruga, which roughly translates to “wrinkle nut”.

Are pecans toxic to humans?

In general, Pecan shells are not poisonous, and they do more good than bad to the human body. They are also useful for different purposes. The next time you would be eating fresh inshell pecan nuts, bear in mind how vital and effective the shells are too; they are not just wastes.

What nuts are toxic to dogs?

Nuts That Are Toxic for Pets or Should Be Avoided

• Macadamia nuts – Very toxic to dogs.
• Black walnuts – Very toxic to dogs.
• Old and moldy walnuts – Very toxic to dogs and cats.
• Raw Cashews – Should be avoided for dogs and toxic for cats.
• Pistachios – Should be avoided for dogs and cats.

Are pecans bad for cats?

Pecans. Pecans are proven to be safe for cats, but once again, only if eaten moderately. Because of their high fat content, pecans are not welcome on your cat’s menu. If your kitty ingested a few pecans, you shouldn’t worry too much.

How long can a pecan tree live?

200-300 years
Pecan trees reach maturity at around twelve years old, and they can live as long as 200-300 years (and continue to produce!) when grown in ideal conditions. Pecan tree height typically ranges from 70 to 100 feet, but some trees can grow as tall as 150 feet or higher.

What is the biggest pecan tree?

In 1958 the Big Pecan Tree measured 17’8″ in circumference, 104′ in height, and 125′ in breadth. In April 1973 the tree measured 18’2″ in circumference, 106′ in height and 136′ in spread and was named the World’s Largest Pecan Tree in the American Forestry Association’s Social Register of Big Trees.

Do pecan trees make pecans every year?

While pecan trees may produce a crop each year once they get started, heavy crops of nuts get produced in alternate years. The phenomenon, called alternate bearing, means the trees produce light crops in the other years.

What country do pecans come from?

Today, the U.S. produces between 80-90% of the world’s pecans, with an annual crop of about 300 million pounds. Outside of the U.S. there is some production in Mexico and a growing production in South Africa. The nut harvest for growers typically begins around mid-October.

What do pecans grow on?

Pecans are grown in groves or orchards of trees. Groves are groupings of trees that are grown naturally, while orchards are defined as groups of trees planted by humans. Trees in both settings are cared for by dedicated, experienced growers, and can live for many years.