Pronunciation: [pɪkˈɑːn tɹˈiː] (IPA) 
The word "pecan tree" is spelled "pəˈkæn tri". The first syllable "pə" is pronounced as "puh" with a short "u" sound, while the second syllable "kæn" is pronounced as "kan" with a short "a" sound. The word is spelled with an "e" and not an "a" in the second syllable, unlike the word "pecan" itself. The final syllable "tri" is pronounced as "tree" with a long "ee" sound.
A pecan tree is a deciduous, hardwood tree belonging to the genus Carya in the family Juglandaceae. It is native to North America, particularly the southeastern United States, and is highly valued for its sweet, nutritious nuts. The pecan tree can reach impressive heights, typically ranging from 70 to 100 feet, with a spread of 40 to 70 feet. It has an elongated crown and features alternate, pinnately compound leaves with 9 to 17 leaflets that are lance-shaped and serrated along the edges.
The pecan tree plays a significant role in commercial agriculture, as it is cultivated for its clusters of smooth, brownish ellipsoidal nuts. The outer husk of the pecan is thick and green, which splits open when the nut is mature, exposing the hard shell that encapsulates the edible kernel. Pecans are used in a variety of culinary applications, including cooking, baking, snacking, and as a key ingredient in many desserts and confections.
In addition to its economic importance, pecan trees are valued for their ornamental qualities, as they provide shade and have an attractive, spreading canopy. They generally require well-draining soil, abundant sunlight, and a long growing season to reach their full potential. Pecan trees are also known for their longevity, often living for over a century. Due to their environmental benefits, cultural importance, and economic significance, the pecan tree holds a special place in both agricultural and horticultural communities.
The word "pecan" originates from the Native American language, specifically from the Algonquian language family. In Algonquian, it is believed to have come from the word "pakani", which roughly translates to "a nut that requires a stone to crack". This term was later anglicized to "pecan", and it refers to the nut-bearing tree scientifically known as Carya illinoinensis, commonly known as the pecan tree.
