Juglans ailantifolia (Japanese Walnut)

Juglans ailantifolia (Japanese Walnut) is a species of walnut tree native to Japan, as well as parts of China and Korea. Here are some key characteristics of the Japanese Walnut:

Appearance: The Japanese Walnut is a deciduous tree that can grow to a height of 40 to 60 feet (12 to 18 meters). It has a broad, spreading crown and a straight trunk. The bark is grayish-brown and becomes rough and fissured with age.

Leaves: The leaves of the Japanese Walnut are compound and pinnately divided. They consist of 11 to 19 leaflets that are elongated and lance-shaped with serrated edges. The foliage is typically medium green in color and turns yellow in the fall.

Nuts: Japanese Walnut trees produce unique nuts known as heartnuts. The heartnuts are large and have a distinctive heart-shaped appearance, hence the name. The nuts have a thin, smooth shell that is easy to crack. The kernel inside is edible and has a rich, sweet flavor.

Habitat: Japanese Walnut trees prefer temperate climates and are commonly found in mixed forests. They can tolerate a variety of soil types but prefer well-drained soils. The species is relatively cold hardy and can withstand freezing temperatures.

Uses: The Japanese Walnut is cultivated both for its wood and its heartnut nuts. The wood is highly valued for its attractive grain and is used in furniture making, cabinetry, and other woodworking projects. The heartnuts are harvested for consumption and are often enjoyed raw, roasted, or used in baking and cooking.

The Japanese Walnut, Juglans ailantifolia, is distinct from other walnut species such as the Black Walnut (Juglans nigra) or the English Walnut (Juglans regia). Each species has its own unique characteristics and native regions.