Japanese walnut
Juglans ailantifolia male and female together, Hardiness : Zone 4
Other names
Cordiformis, mandshurica sachalinensis, heartnut
Category
Nut tree or shrub
Description
A large deciduous tree native to Japan and closely related to butternut. It has relatively fast growth, a rounded to broadly spreading crown and very large compound leaves. It produces nuts with relatively smooth shells, with some forms developing a distinctive heart-shaped cross-section. The nuts are edible and have a mild, pleasant flavour. The species is particularly interesting for cold regions where other walnut species are less adapted.
Availability
Currently unavailable
Features
Height X Width
25.0m X 13.0m
Foliage
Very large deciduous pinnately compound leaves, generally 40–90 cm long, with numerous toothed leafl
Flowering
Male flowers are produced in long, pendulous catkins, while female flowers occur in small clusters near the ends of new shoots. Pollination is primarily by wind. Male and female flowers on the same tree may mature at different times. Blooming time : from may to june
Edible parts description
Nuts are enclosed in green husks and mature to brown in autumn. The kernels are edible, mild, sweet and rich in oil. Heartnut selections produce nuts with a characteristic heart-shaped appearance and are generally easier to crack than many common walnut species.
Harvest : from september to october
Resistances
-
Sun exposure
Full sun
Soil type
Normal, well drained
Edible parts
Seeds
Pollination
Self-fertile