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Juglans regia Walnut Deciduous tree (1 Page of 5) The Juglans regia plant species is found in E. Europe to N. Asia. More or less naturalized in S. Britain. It is a member of the Juglandaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Walnut. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Juglans regia Common Name: Walnut Family: Juglandaceae Author: L. Known Hazards: None known Mature Height: 20 Mature Width: 20 Habitat: Forests in the Himalayas, preferring a northerly aspect in the west but a southerly or westerly aspect in the east of the range[144].
Cultivation Notes: Requires a deep well-drained loam[11] and a sunny position sheltered from strong winds. Prefers a slightly alkaline heavy loam but succeeds in most soils[1, 63].
The dormant plant is very cold tolerant, but the young growth in spring can be damaged by late frosts. Some late-leafing cultivars have been developed, these often avoid damage from spring frosts and can produce a better quality timber tree.
The walnut tree is frequently cultivated for its edible seed in temperate zones of the world, there are many named varieties[63, 183]. Trees grow well in most areas of Britain but they often fail to fully ripen their fruits or their wood in our cooler and damper climate[63, 200], they prefer a more continental climate. There are some very fine trees in Cornwall[59]. Walnuts can produce large healthy trees in many parts of Britain, but seedling trees often do not fruit reliably. Some European varieties have been developed that succeed in colder areas[200]. Seedling trees are said to take from 6 to 15 years to come into fruit from seed[200], but these cultivars usually start cropping within 5 years.
Plants produce a deep taproot and they are intolerant of root disturbance. Seedlings should be planted out into their permanent positions as soon as possible and given some protection for their first winter or two since they are somewhat tender when young.
Flower initiation depends upon suitable conditions in the previous summer. The flowers and young growths can be destroyed by even short periods down to -2°c[63], but fortunately plants are usually late coming into leaf. Some cultivars are self-fertile, though it is generally best to grow at least two different cultivars to assist in cross-pollination.
Any pruning should only be carried out in late summer to early autumn or when the plant is fully dormant otherwise wounds will bleed profusely and this will severely weaken the tree.
Plants produce chemicals which can inhibit the growth of other plants. These chemicals are dissolved out of the leaves when it rains and are washed down to the ground below, reducing the growth of plants under the tree[18, 20, 159]. The roots also produce substances that are toxic to many plant species, especially apples (Malus species), members of the Ericaceae, Potentilla spp and the white pines (certain Pinus spp.)[200]. Trees have a dense canopy which tends to reduce plant growth below them[20]. All in all, not the best of companion trees, it is also suggested that the trees do not like growing together in clumps[37]. Trees are said to inhibit the growth of potatoes and tomatoes[18].
Hybridizes with J. nigra[149].
This species is notably susceptible to honey fungus[200].
The bruised leaves have a pleasant sweet though resinous smell[245].
For further Juglans regia gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

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