Also known as American Black Walnut · American Walnut · Black Walnut
Eastern black walnut (Juglans nigra) is a large, deciduous tree producing highly prized dark wood and edible nuts, native to eastern North America.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun
100% intensity
Requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and nut production.
Moderate
50% intensity
Water young trees regularly, reducing frequency for mature, established trees. Ensure good drainage.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Adaptable
50% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 4-9. Tolerates a wide range of temperatures, including cold winters.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize young trees in spring; mature trees rarely need supplemental feeding unless deficient.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Juglone, a substance found in the roots, leaves, and hull of black walnut, can be toxic to some plants and animals. It is not considered poisonous to humans or pets in typical exposure scenarios, but can cause skin irritation.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Young eastern black walnut trees require consistent moisture, especially during establishment. Water deeply and regularly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Mature trees are more drought-tolerant but benefit from watering during prolonged dry spells. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Prune eastern black walnut trees primarily to shape young specimens, remove dead or diseased branches, and improve structure.
Major pruning is best done during the dormant season (late winter or early spring) to minimize sap loss and disease risk. Avoid excessive pruning, as it can stimulate unwanted sucker growth.
Propagation is typically done by collecting nuts in the fall and stratifying them over winter. Sow stratified seeds in the spring. Grafting can also be used for specific cultivars.
Black walnut seeds have a hard outer shell and require patience and specific conditions for successful germination.
Repotting is generally not applicable to Juglans nigra as it is a large, long-lived tree. Young saplings purchased from nurseries may need repotting into larger containers if root-bound, but the goal is usually to transplant them into their permanent location as soon as feasible.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Eastern Black Walnut (Juglans nigra)
Where Eastern Black Walnut (Juglans nigra) is found
Density
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7 known issues from plant disease data
Cylindrocladium Root Rot in Black Walnut blackens and cracks the taproot, stunts growth, yellows leaves, and can kill young seedlings.
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Juglandaceae |
| Genus | Juglans |
| Species | Juglans nigra |
Similar in genus Juglans
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
