Pecan Tree Pollination in a Nutshell

Pecan trees bloom and shed pollen at separate times, making pecan tree pollination different from fruit trees. Learn about Type I and Type II pecan trees.

Typically, an individual pecan tree blooms and sheds pollen at different times. Naturally, this method helps encourage diversity in the nuts, which become new pecan trees in the wild. For adequate cross pollination between pecan trees, it is highly recommended you grow at least one of each type.

Flowering Types in Pecan Trees

Pawnee Pecan Type I

Some pecan trees shed pollen first and their pistillate flowers are receptive of pollen later in the season. These varieties are referred to as Protandrous, having a "Type I" flowering habit.

SSG Pecan Type II

Other pecan trees have pistillate flowers that are receptive to pollen first and then their catkins shed pollen later in the season. These trees are referred to as Protogynous, having a "Type II" flowering habit.

Learn how to tell the difference between protandrous and protogynous flowering habits in pecan trees.

Type I (Protandrous) Pecan Trees

Type II (Protogynous) Pecan Trees

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This information is included in each pecan variety's product description. For best results, please consult the flowering types as well as the Recommended Pollinators section on each product page.

Interested in learning more about pecan trees? Find pollination and other helpful information at the Northern Pecans blog from U.S. Pecan Research & Extension Specialist, William Reid.