English Walnut Trees

Also called Persian Walnut

The English Walnut Tree: History, Uses, and Growing Guide

It’s easy to assume that England is the homeland of the English walnut tree (Juglans regia), but its true origin lies far southeast of England, in Persia (modern-day Iran). Known for its exceptional lumber and delicate nuts, the English walnut has a rich history of use in woodworking, furniture-making, and even gunstocks. The thin-shelled nuts of the English walnut are easy to crack open, making them ideal for snacking and culinary use. Due to their delicate flavor, English walnuts make up nearly all commercially grown walnuts in the United States.

Benefits and Uses of English Walnut Trees

• Woodworking: The lumber from English walnut trees is prized for its beauty and durability, often used in furniture and fine woodworking projects.

• Edible Nuts: The nuts are thin-shelled, making them easy to crack, and they feature a delicate flavor perfect for a variety of culinary uses.

• Shade Tree: With a round, spreading shape, English walnut trees provide dense shade, making them a wonderful addition to your landscape, especially during the summer.

Carpathian Walnuts

The Carpathian walnut is the hardiest of the English walnut varieties, brought to America in the early 1900s. Carpathian walnuts thrive in colder climates, making them an excellent choice for gardeners in more northern regions.

Varieties to Grow

• Lake English Walnut: A self-pollinating variety, ideal for those with smaller growing spaces.

• Persian Walnut Tree: Expand your harvest by pairing this variety with another Carpathian type for better pollination and yields.

Growing Tips

• Climate and Soil: English walnut trees thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 5-9 and prefer well-drained, loamy soil. They grow best in full sun, which helps them produce high-quality nuts.

• Space Requirements: These trees can grow quite large, so be sure to plant them in an area with plenty of space to accommodate their round, spreading canopy.

• Pollination: While some varieties are self-pollinating, planting multiple trees can improve yields.

For more details on when to expect your English walnut trees to start producing, check out our Nut Trees: How Many Years Until Harvest? guide.