Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Deciduous hardwood
Plant Family
Juglandaceae
Tree Category
Nut and Shade Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Species type (wild type)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 4-9
About This Tree
Large, stately deciduous tree with a straight trunk, rounded to oval crown, and open canopy allowing sunlight to filter through.
Leaf Characteristics
Alternate, pinnately compound leaves 12-24 inches long, with 15-23 leaflets, finely serrate margins, yellowish-green turning yellow in fall.
Bark Characteristics
Dark brown to nearly black, deeply furrowed with narrow, rounded ridges forming a diamond-like pattern.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern and central North America
Growing Season
Leafs out late in spring, drops leaves relatively early in autumn. Flowers in spring with catkins.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Requires full sun and moist, deep, fertile soils. Moderate drought tolerance once established.
Mature Size
Height of 70-100 feet, spread of 50-75 feet, fast to moderate growth rate.
Special Characteristics
Produces juglone, an allelopathic compound that inhibits growth of certain plants; highly prized dark timber; edible nuts.
Wildlife & Ecology
Supports squirrels and other rodents that feed on nuts, provides nesting sites for birds, and serves as a host plant for various moth larvae.