Genus guide
Carya — 16 species
Carya encompasses the hickories and pecans — large, long-lived deciduous nut trees that include named pecan cultivars such as Desirable, Pawnee, Elliot, and Sumner. They are full-sun trees, requiring six or more hours of direct light daily and deep, well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Established trees need deep, consistent watering during dry spells, especially during nut fill in late summer. Toxicity varies across the genus: some species are listed non-toxic by the ASPCA, while juglone in hulls and moldy nuts can harm dogs and horses — verify each species before planting.
All Carya species we cover
- Bitternut Hickory
- Black Hickory
- Mockernut Hickory
- Pecan 'Caddo'
- Pecan 'Cape Fear'
- Pecan 'Cheyenne'
- Pecan 'Desirable'
- Pecan 'Elliot'
- Pecan 'Kiowa'
- Pecan 'Oconee'
- Pecan 'Pawnee'
- Pecan 'Sumner'
- Pignut Hickory
- Shagbark Hickory
- Shellbark Hickory
- Water Hickory
Carya — frequently asked questions
Are Carya plants toxic to cats and dogs?
Most Carya are pet-safe. Of the 16 Carya species we cover, 13 are non-toxic on the ASPCA list and 3 carry a toxic or mildly-toxic rating. Even so, confirm the individual species before trusting it around pets.
How much light do Carya plants need?
Most Carya do best in direct sun. If yours stretches toward the window or loses its variegation it wants more light; scorched or bleached leaves mean it is getting too much direct sun.
Are Carya easy to care for?
Some Carya suit more experienced growers — several want strong light, sharp drainage or a specific seasonal rhythm. Check the individual species page for the exact regime.
How many Carya varieties are there?
Growli's care library covers 16 Carya species and varieties — browse them all above. They share a similar light, water and soil pattern, so once you learn one Carya, the rest follow closely.
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