Carya illinoinensis 'Sumner'

Sumner Pecan

A dependable, late-ripening pecan cultivar valued for its large, elongated nuts, good kernel quality, and strong disease resistance—especially to pecan scab. ‘Sumner’ develops a broad, attractive canopy with glossy green foliage that provides excellent shade. Because it ripens later than many cultivars, it is best suited to regions with a long growing season.


Plant Characteristics


Type: Deciduous nut tree



Form: Upright to spreading, broad canopy



Mature Width: 40–60 ft



Mature Height: 70–90 ft



Flower Color: Inconspicuous yellow-green catkins



Foliage Color: Medium green; yellow fall color



Nut: Large, elongated pecan; good kernel percentage




Growing Conditions


USDA Hardiness Zones: 6a–9b



Light: Full sun



Soil: Deep, fertile, well-drained soils; performs best in loams



Water: Moderate to high; consistent moisture improves nut size and fill



Maintenance: Moderate; pruning, fertilization, and pest management recommended




Pollination
Type II (protogynous) — requires a compatible Type I pecan for cross-pollination (such as ‘Pawnee’, ‘Desirable’, or ‘Caddo’).


Landscape Uses
Nut orchards, farms, large residential properties, and edible landscapes where ample space is available. Also an excellent shade tree with productive yield.


Care Tips


Plant with a compatible pollinator nearby for reliable nut set



Provide deep irrigation during nut development



Prune in winter to maintain structure and airflow

Plant type

Nut Tree

Height

70-90'

Width

40-60'

Hardiness zones

6–9

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Yellow

Soil

Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Nuts

Shape

Spreading, Upright

Bark

Fissured

Fruit

Yes

Drought tolerant

No