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| Juglans nigra
Black walnutCulture: Like most members of the Juglandaceae family, the black walnut enjoys rich, moist soils. It is adaptable to other conditions, but its normally high growth rate becomes substantially lower. The existence of a long taproot makes this tree extremely difficult to transplant, and the high prices that the veneer fetches in the marketplace makes this tree a common target for tree thieves.Care must be used when siting this tree to keep it away from plants susceptible to the allelopathic chemical juglone that is secreted from all parts of the tree. Following is a list of plants that I have had fairly high success in planting under or around Juglans nigra: Cercis canadensis, Parthenocissus quinquefolia, Philadelphus coronarius, Spiraea x bumalda, Symphoricarpos albus, Syringa vulgaris, Thuja occidentalis Ajuga reptans, Geranium endressii, Iris spp., Muscari spp., Scilla siberica, Tulipa spp. Most members of Malus and Prunus seem to be susceptible, as I have lost a vast number of crabapples, pears, and plums on the side of our yard where our walnut is located. Surprisingly, my rose bed is not affected, even though in late summer the sticky sap exuded by the leaves often coats my 'Iceland', 'Bonica', 'Peace', 'Queen Elizabeth', and 'Don Juan' roses. Usage: This species is a fast-growing valuable tree with good form and foliage, although its messiness, secretion of juglone, and lack of seasonal interest limit its use. It is an excellent choice for attracting wildlife, and the habit is often quite interesting, particularly when the lower branches are allowed to hang downward. |
