This walnut is a slow growing, broad - crowned tree up to 24 m high and is in common commercial use. Yields of 150 - 200 kg/tree have been recorded.
The nuts are eaten raw and in almost every conceivable form of cooking. Unripe fruits are added to jams, preserved in vinegar or syrup and made into brandy. The oil is used in cooking and on salads. The leaves, used as a tea, are a tonic to the stomach, promote good appetite and are used as a treatment for catarrhal enteritis. A decoction is used for rheumatism, gout, glandular swelling, scrofula, gum problems, sweaty feet, skin problems including acne and dandruff, and for excessive milk flow after a child has been weaned. A decoction of the green shell surrounding the walnut is recommended for failing virility.
Nutritional composition of the walnut per 100 grams of edible portion is: Water - 3.5%, Energy - 651 calories, Carbohydrate - 15.8 g, Fat - 64.0 g, Protein - 14.8 g, Ash - 1.9 g, Calcium - 99 mg, Potassium - 450 mg, Sodium - 2 mg, Magnesium - 131 mg, Iron - 3.1 mg, Phospho-rous - 380 mg, Chlorine - 12 mg, Sulphur - 22 mg, Silicon - 12 mg, Iodine - 0.003 mg, Vitamin A - 30 I.U., Thiamin - 0.33 mg, Riboflavin - 0.13 mg, Niacin - 0.9 mg, Ascorbic acid - 2 mgs and the digestion time is 3 hours.
This is the most sought after walnut timber, as it has the most decorative grain, is durable, takes a high polish and is not prone to splitting. It has been the preferred timber for trimming in prestige cars, and is prized for gun butts because of its resilience.
- Description: The English walnut tree is a large, deciduous tree that can grow up to 25-35 meters tall. It has pinnate leaves with 5-9 leaflets and produces round nuts encased in a green, fleshy husk that turns brown and splits open as the nuts mature. The walnuts have a hard shell with a rich, flavorful kernel inside, commonly used in baking, cooking, and as a nutritious snack. Walnut wood is also highly valued for its quality and is used in high-end furniture and cabinetry.
- Companions: Clover, comfrey, garlic, yarrow.
- Preparation: Select a site with deep, well-drained soil. Incorporate organic matter.
- Planting: Space trees 12-18 meters apart. Plant in early spring or autumn.
- Pruning: Prune in late winter to remove dead or crossing branches.
- Other Suggestions: Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Protect from late frosts.
Juglans regia (Persian or English walnut): Typically begins producing nuts after 4-7 years.
In the cool temperate climate of West Gippsland, Victoria, Australia, the most commonly grown walnut is the Juglans regia (Persian or English walnut). This species is well-suited to the climate conditions found in this region, which include cool winters and mild summers. The English walnut is favored for its relatively quick production time, high-quality nuts, and adaptability to various soil types. Additionally, its nut is well-regarded for its taste and is widely used in culinary applications.