Juglans regia – Common Walnut Tree

Common Walnut (Juglans regia) is a deciduous, nut-bearing tree with a broad, spreading crown, aromatic green foliage and golden autumn colour. Best suited to large gardens, orchards and parkland, it develops into a substantial shade tree with an impressive presence through the seasons.

Species and key features

• Botanical name: Juglans regia.
• Common names: Common Walnut, English Walnut or Persian Walnut.
• Plant type: Large deciduous tree, losing its leaves in autumn.
• Seasonal interest: Spring catkins, a leafy summer canopy, autumn walnuts and yellow autumn foliage.
• Eventual height: Approximately 15–25 metres, with a broad crown. Allow generous space for its mature spread.

Position and growing conditions

Choose a sunny, sheltered position with deep, fertile, well-drained soil. Avoid waterlogged ground and frost pockets, as young spring growth and flowers can be damaged by late frosts. This is a long-term specimen for an open site rather than a small garden or permanent container.

Will it produce walnuts?

Common Walnut can produce edible nuts once mature, but the time to first crop varies with the tree's age, propagation method and growing conditions. Seed-grown trees can take many years to bear, so a crop within a fixed number of years cannot be guaranteed. Walnuts are wind-pollinated; another compatible walnut nearby can improve cropping where flowering overlaps. Late frosts and weather during flowering can affect the harvest.

Planting and aftercare

Plant with the top of the rootball level with the surrounding soil, water thoroughly and stake if needed while the roots establish. Keep a weed-free area around the base and apply mulch without touching the trunk. Water during dry spells while establishing. Allow the tree to develop its natural crown and avoid unnecessary pruning; if pruning is needed, late summer is generally preferable to winter because walnuts can bleed sap.

Supplied plant

Supplied as a pot-grown tree. Please contact Stoneybrook Nursery for the current supplied height and pot size before ordering. Mature dimensions describe the eventual tree, not its size on arrival.