 |
 |
| Leaf Photo: Robert Vidéki |
Bark Photo: Robert Vidéki |
 |
 |
| Fruit Photo: Paul Wray |
Tree Photo: Sean Fox |
The range of black walnut is moving north thanks to the planting efforts of people and forgetful squirrels!
Black walnut is a common species in the moist bottomlands in southwestern Ontario. It has been frequently planted north and east of its range. It can live to be 150 years old.
This species is recognized by its dark, thickly ridged bark and coarse branches. The leaves are similar to butternut, but typically with more leaflets (14-22) on short stalks, almost hairless and with the terminal leaflet being smaller than the rest. The fruits are round and not sticky, and the nut is round with smooth ridges.
Black walnut is renowned for its strong, dark heartwood that is often used for high quality furniture and veneer.
Size: Up to 30 m tall
Moisture: Prefers moist soils
Shade: Intolerant of shade, prefers full sun
Soil: Prefers well-drained, rich soils
Planting tip: Many people know black walnut roots release juglone, a substance that inhibits the growth of other plants. However, many native trees tolerate juglone well, including maples, pawpaw, northern hackberry, honey locust, eastern redcedar, oaks, hickories, sycamore, eastern white cedar, hemlock and cherries, just to name a few. More tips...
