Japanese walnut
Juglans ailanthifolia
Walnut family (Juglandaceae)
The worldwide walnut
This walnut is native to Japan but in 1859 was introduced by the German physician and collector, von Siebold, to the Leiden Botanic Garden and planted in the 'Nut Field’ there. In July 2015 a fierce storm split the trunk into two and the tree had to be cut back considerably. However new leaves reappeared – the sign of a true fighter.
The nuts, which hang from long stalks, are covered by a hairy husk. They are pointed - oval with a thick, protruding seam - and very hard. In Japan they are much valued as an edible nut.
Read more.... »Themes
Seed edible either raw or cooked - they can be baked, fried and used in sweets, and have a mild yet pleasant flavour. They can also be served for desert.
The wood is soft, light, of good quality and doesn't split easily. Used for furniture.
A brown dye is obtained from seed husks and bark.
Details
Description: | Tree, up to 20 m. |
---|---|
Distributions: | Japan |
Habitat: | Forest. |
Year cycle: | Perennial (polycarpic decidous) |
Hardiness: | 14 - 23 f (hardy - average winter) |
Flowering period: | Juni |
Flower color: | Yellow, green, pink, red |
Notes on flowers: | The male flowers are inconspicuous yellowish green catkins; female flowers have pinkish red pistils. |
Fruiting period: | Oktober |
At its best: | Juni, oktober |