Juglans regia 12ltr pot

Juglans regia – Common Walnut – 12 Litre Pot

The Common Walnut has graced British gardens and country estates for centuries, prized both for its stately presence and its delicious nuts. It develops into a handsome, broad-crowned tree with spreading branches and large leaves made up of oblong leaflets that release a pleasant aromatic scent when brushed. Long catkins appear in spring, and in time the tree produces round green fruits enclosing the familiar edible walnuts, ready for harvesting in autumn. It makes a wonderful long-term specimen for a large garden, paddock or parkland setting.

Fully hardy (RHS H6), it grows in chalk, clay, loam or sand of any pH, in moist but well-drained or free-draining soil, though it performs best in a deep, fertile loam. Plant in full sun, avoiding frost pockets, as late spring frosts can damage the young leaves and flowers and reduce the crop. Like all walnuts, its roots and fallen leaves release a natural compound called juglone, which can inhibit the growth of some neighbouring plants, so it's best sited away from vegetable beds. The green husks can also stain hands and paving, so wear gloves when harvesting.

Plant from late autumn to winter, stake firmly and water well through the first couple of seasons. Little pruning is needed; any necessary work should be carried out in late summer or early autumn, as walnuts bleed sap heavily if cut in late winter or spring. Allow plenty of space: over time it will exceed 12m in height with a spread of more than 8m.

Each tree is hand-selected before dispatch.