JUGLANS NIGRA / BLACK WALNUT

JUGLANS NIGRA / BLACK WALNUT

A Powerful Native Tree with Wildlife Value and Majestic Presence

Juglans nigra, commonly known as Black Walnut, is a large native deciduous tree prized for its strong, upright form, aromatic compound leaves, and valuable edible nuts. Thriving in full sun with deep, well-drained soils, Black Walnut adds shade, ecological importance, and long-term structure to large landscapes, woodlands, and naturalized areas. Its nuts are a critical food source for wildlife, and its imposing stature makes it a true legacy tree.

Why Choose Black Walnut?

Wildlife Friendly: Nuts provide food for birds, squirrels, and other mammals.
Edible & Valuable: Produces rich, flavorful nuts highly valued by people and wildlife.
Majestic & Long-Lived: Large size and strong branching create a commanding presence.
Native & Ecologically Important: Supports native insects and woodland ecosystems.

Key Features:

Foliage Color: Medium green compound leaves turning yellow in fall.
Flower/Seed Color: Greenish catkins in spring; round, green husked nuts in fall.
Height and Spread: Typically grows 50–75 feet tall and 50–75 feet wide.
Hardiness: Hardy to USDA Zones 4–9.
Sunlight: Prefers full sun.
Soil Requirements: Deep, well-drained soils; prefers fertile loam but tolerates clay.

Specifications:

Plant Size: 50–75 feet tall, 50–75 feet wide.
Growth Habit: Large deciduous tree with a broad, rounded crown.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 4–9.
Flowering & Fruiting: Spring catkins followed by nut production in fall.
Fall Interest: Yellow foliage adds seasonal color.

Ideal Uses:

Large Landscapes & Woodlands: Best suited for spacious sites with room to mature.
Wildlife Gardens: Provides food and habitat for birds and mammals.
Naturalized & Restoration Plantings: Excellent for native woodland restoration.
Shade Tree for Open Areas: Offers deep shade and long-term structure.

Black Walnut is a commanding and ecologically valuable native tree. Its edible nuts, wildlife benefits, and impressive size make it an excellent choice for large properties, woodlands, and naturalized landscapes where it can reach its full potential.