PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun for optimal growth and nut production; tolerates dappled partial shade but may reduce fruiting
Watering
Young trees require deep weekly watering; established mature trees are drought-tolerant and only need supplemental water during prolonged dry spells
Temperature
Hardy to -30°C; tolerates summer temperatures up to 35°C, but benefits from mulch to retain soil moisture during extreme heat
Characteristics
- Leaf: Pinnately compound, 30–60 cm long; 15–23 ovate-lanceolate leaflets with serrated margins, turning golden brown in fall
- Flower: Monoecious; male catkins 10–15 cm long, female spikes with 2–5 small green flowers
- Stem/Bark: Dark brown to black deeply furrowed bark; thick, sturdy branches forming a broad crown
Care Guide
Watering
Water young trees deeply once weekly; established trees only water during extended drought
Fertilization
Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer once in early spring. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can reduce nut yield and promote excessive leaf growth
Composted banana peel tea：Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drenching; avoid using raw peels to prevent pest infestations and odorPruning
- Prune dead, diseased, or crossing branches in late winter to maintain tree structure and improve air circulation
- Remove suckers growing from the base of the tree to direct energy to the main trunk and crown
- Thin overcrowded branches in early spring to increase light penetration for nut production
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Ingestion of leaves, nuts, or bark may cause vomiting and diarrhea
Humans: Contains juglone which may cause skin irritation; raw nuts may cause mild gastrointestinal upset
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Valued for high-quality timber and edible nuts; juglone in roots and leaves inhibits growth of sensitive nearby plants like tomatoes and rhododendrons
Usage: Timber for furniture and flooring; edible nuts for culinary use; large shade tree for rural landscapes
