English Walnut (also known as Persian Walnut or Common Walnut)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Angiosperms, Class: Eudicots, Order: Fagales, Family: Juglandaceae, Genus: Juglans, Species: Juglans regia · Juglandaceae (Walnut family) · Odd-pinnately compound leaf; the image shows a single leaflet. Deciduous.
Species
Juglans regia
Leaf Type
Odd-pinnately compound leaf; the image shows a single leaflet. Deciduous.
Family
Juglandaceae (Walnut family)
Shape
Elliptical to ovate-oblong with an acute tip. Leaflets are typically asymmetrical at the base.
Size
The visible leaflet appears to be 3-5 inches long. Full compound leaves range from 10-16 inches containing 5-9 leaflets.
Margin
Entire (smooth) to very slightly undulate, distinguishing it from the serrated margins of Black Walnut.
Arrangement
Alternate on the stem; leaflets are arranged oppositely along the rachis with one terminal leaflet.
Rarity
Common (widely cultivated globally for nut production and timber).
Color & Pattern
Deep forest green upper surface with lighter yellowish-green veins. Small chlorotic yellow flecks are visible across the lamina, likely indicative of minor stress or early senescence.
Venation Pattern
Pinnate venation with a prominent central midrib and secondary veins that curve slightly toward the margin.
Texture & Surface
Smooth (glabrous) and slightly leathery (coriaceous). The surface has a matte to semi-glossy finish without significant hairs.
Description
A majestic deciduous tree reaching 25-35 meters with a broad, rounded crown. It features smooth silvery-grey bark when young that becomes deeply fissured with age. The tree produces edible nuts encased in green husks.
Key Features
Distinguished by its smooth (entire) leaf margins, lack of odor compared to Black Walnut, and the terminal leaflet which is usually larger than the lateral ones.
Habitat
Prefers deep, fertile, well-drained loamy soils. Found in temperate valleys and sunny slopes; avoids heavy clay or waterlogged soils.
Geographic Range
Native to the region stretching from the Balkans eastward to the Himalayas and Southwest China. Widely cultivated in Europe and California.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good health. The image shows some 'stipple' or yellow spotting patterns which could indicate spider mite feeding or a minor nutrient deficiency/oxidative stress.
Interesting Facts
The genus name 'Juglans' is derived from 'Jovis glans,' meaning 'Jupiter's nut.' It is known for producing juglone, an allelopathic chemical that can inhibit the growth of certain nearby plants.
Medicinal & Uses
Primary source of edible walnut kernels. Highly prized for dark, fine-grained furniture timber. Leaves have been used traditionally in herbal tea for digestive issues and skin inflammation.
Ecological Role
Provides food for squirrels and birds. Serves as a host plant for various moth larvae. Often used in agroforestry systems.
Similar Species
Black Walnut (Juglans nigra) – distinguished by serrated (toothed) leaflet margins and a missing or small terminal leaflet.
Foraging Tips
Look for the smooth-edged leaflets and large green fruit husks in late summer. Check the crushed leaf scent; it is aromatic but less 'citrusy' than Black Walnut.
Toxicity Warning
Safe/Non-toxic to humans as food, but the roots and husks contain juglone which is toxic to many other plant species and potentially harmful to horses (laminitis) if used as bedding.