Hardy Pecan vs American Bladdernut

American Bladdernut is a fast-growing, ornamental shrub native to eastern North America. It can be grown as a large shrub or trained as a small tree. The small, drooping, white flowers are bell-shaped and grow in clusters. They appear in mid to late spring, attracting various pollinators. Well suited as an understory plant as it prefers shady and partial sun location with moist soils.

The blossoms mature into papery seed capsules and have been described as miniature Japanese lanterns. They are commonly used in dried flower arrangements. The seeds found within the pods are edible, and have a taste similar to pistachios. They can be eaten raw, used in baking or made into a sweet cooking oil.

Care should be taken when planting American Bladdernut, as it can spread quickly. It is prone to suckering and will self-seed. Plant the right tree in the right place.

Hardy Pecan trees are known for their edible nuts that ripen in late autumn. They can be eaten raw or cooked and can be used in a wide range of baked goods. If stored properly in a cool, dry location, they can be kept for up to 6 months in their shell. Trees tend to bear nuts at maturity, which occurs around 6 -10 years. The size and form of this tree also makes it a great shade or feature tree for your landscape.

For nut production, it is recommended that at least 2-3 are planted so that cross pollination can occur. In colder areas it is likely that nut production will be limited, especially in locations with late frosts and shorter growing seasons.

If exposed to high winds, Hardy Pecan is known to lose branches, but these can be used as firewood, or to smoke foods with a hickory flavour. Finding seed or seedlings of this tree is rare in Canada.

Note: plant this tree once. It will not respond well to transplanting.

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