Black Walnut (American Walnut)
Juglans nigra · Juglandaceae (Walnut family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Compound (pinnate, with 11-23 leaflets), deciduous
Shape
Lanceolate to ovate-lanceolate leaflets with asymmetrical bases
Margin
Serrate (finely toothed)
Arrangement
Alternate, pinnately compound leaves along the stem
Venation
Pinnate venation with prominent, yellowish midribs and lateral veins on each leaflet
Key Features
Pinnately compound leaves typically lacking a terminal leaflet, finely serrated leaflet margins, dark furrowed bark, and a distinctive chambered pith in the twigs.
Description
Black Walnut is a large, majestic deciduous tree known for its dark, deeply furrowed bark, large compound leaves, and highly prized dark brown timber. It produces large, round nuts enclosed in a thick, fleshy, yellowish-green husk that turns brown and decomposes on the ground.
Habitat
Deep, rich, moist, and well-drained soils in mixed hardwood forests, along streams, and in open fields. Prefers full sun.
Native Range
Native to eastern North America, stretching from southern Ontario through the eastern and central United States down to Texas and Georgia. Widely planted elsewhere.