Walnut

Walnut refers to trees in the genus *Juglans* and to their edible seeds, especially the English or Persian walnut (*Juglans regia*).

Walnut refers to trees in the genus *Juglans* and to their edible seeds, especially the English or Persian walnut (*Juglans regia*). Walnuts are deciduous trees in the family Juglandaceae, native to parts of North and South America, Europe, Asia, and the West Indies. They are grown for their nuts, timber, and, in some species, rootstock use.

Taxonomy and naming

Walnuts are trees in the genus *Juglans*, which is in the family Juglandaceae. In common usage, “walnut” can also mean the edible seed of these trees, especially the Persian or English walnut.

Description

Walnut trees are deciduous and typically large, with pinnate leaves, catkins of male flowers, and female flowers that develop into fruits. The edible part is the kernel inside a hard woody shell, enclosed by a green husk.

Distribution and cultivation

The genus is native to temperate regions across the Americas, Europe, Asia, and the West Indies. Species such as *Juglans regia* have been cultivated for millennia and are grown widely in temperate climates.

Uses

Walnuts are valued as food, especially for kernels eaten fresh or processed in baking and confectionery. Walnut timber is also highly valued, and some walnut species are used in breeding or as rootstock.