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Walnut, common

A well known nut but a lesser known tree. The actual walnut shell is hidden in a green outer husk- but be careful as the juices of the husk will stain hands and clothes green!

What other names does it have?

Generic nameWalnut
Latin nameJuglans regia
Family nameWalnut
Latin family nameJuglandaceae

What type of tree is it?

Is it a broadleaf or conifer?It is a broadleaf
Does it lose its leaves in autumn?Yes, it is deciduous

Species description:

Average height10-30m

Leaf

DescriptionThere are usually between 5-13 leaflets arranged in pairs with a large end leaflet (this end leaflet can be up to 20cm long itself). The leaflets are oval and untoothed. To the touch the leaves are shiny and leathery
ShapeCompound
ColourGreen
Leaf budSquat buds, purple-brown in colour
Leaf stalkLong stalk
Leaf arrangementAlternate

Flower, seed, and fruit

Type of flowerCatkin
Fruit colourA green outer shell containing an inner brown nut
Fruit seasonSummer
Type of seed bodyNut
Seeds dispersed by
  • Wildlife

Bark and twig

Bark descriptionGrey with silver grey rounded ridges
Twig DescriptionStout, green, curving twigs are almost hairless

Where is it usually found?

Is it native or non-native to the British Isles?Non-native - commonly planted
Where is its natural range?South east Europe to south west China although this is much confused by the long history of planting in other areas
Preferred soil type or environmental conditions?Prefers warm areas and drier soils. Dislikes wet areas, clay soils and colder areas which suffer frost
What is its British conservation status?Frequent

Additional information

Human uses of tree and timberWalnut has two main uses, originaly it was widely grown for the nuts and the Romans introduced it around their empire for that purpose. Later it was discovered to have a very fine timber with a decorative wavy grain. The best wood is at the base of the tree so trees are often dug out rather than felled!

Common Walnut

Untoothed leaves

From top: Fruit hard shell, nut, edible kernel, twig

Collins Tree Guide