Juglans nigra | Black Walnut
Juglans nigra is a large, fast-growing, deciduous tree native to eastern North America and introduced to the UK in 1629. With a round, broad crown on maturity, it has large pinnate leaves, made up of 7-9 pairs of green leaflets that are oval, pointed, irregularly-toothed and hairy underneath. It is late coming into leaf, often well after all other trees, and one of the first to shed its leaves, but not before they turn a dazzling golden-yellow! The edible nuts of the Juglans nigra are enclosed in a green, globose and fleshy husk. The shells are hard to break but once dry can be crushed and open. Squirrels and birds enjoy the nuts when the husks are still green. The Juglans regia will grow in most moist well-drained soil, preferring full sun and plenty of space. They make a lovely specimen tree for any parkland or large garden.
The crushed leaves of the Juglans nigra give off a strong smell. Every part of the Juglans nigra has a medicinal use, from relieving toothache to controlling infection. The timber is very attractive and valuable, it is strong and durable, and the heartwood has a mottled effect used in furniture making, coffins and guns.
