California walnut (Juglans californica, Proc. Amer. Acad. Arts 10: 349 (1875))

Family: Juglandaceae

Author: S.Watson

Bibliography: Proc. Amer. Acad. Arts 10: 349 (1875)

Year: 1875

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Juglans

Vegetable: False

Observations: SW. California

Description

The California walnut, known scientifically as Juglans californica, is a species of tree belonging to the Juglandaceae family. This deciduous tree, native to the southwestern regions of California, is highly valued both ecologically and economically.

The California walnut typically thrives in the wild landscapes of southwestern California, where it contributes to the biodiversity of the region. These trees are well-adapted to the Mediterranean climate of their native habitat, characterized by wet, mild winters and hot, dry summers.

The taxonomy of Juglans californica was first formally described by Sereno Watson in 1875, documented in the Proceedings of the American Academy of Arts (Vol. 10, p. 349). Watson’s work laid the foundation for the scientific understanding of this distinctive species.

In appearance, the California walnut features a broad, spreading canopy and robust branches. The leaves are pinnately compound, providing a lush and verdant appearance during the growing season. In autumn, the leaves may turn yellow before falling, following the deciduous nature of the tree.

The fruit of the California walnut is a nut encased in a hard shell, which is enveloped by a green, fleshy husk as it matures. These nuts not only serve as a food source for a variety of wildlife but are also harvested for their nutritious kernels, appreciated by humans as well.

From an ecological perspective, Juglans californica plays a vital role in its native ecosystem. The tree supports a myriad of wildlife species, offering food and shelter. Additionally, it contributes to the soil health and stability of the regions where it grows, thanks to its extensive root system.

Despite its adaptability, the California walnut faces challenges from habitat loss and environmental changes. Conservation efforts are important to ensure that this unique species continues to thrive in its natural setting.

In conclusion, Juglans californica is more than just a tree; it is a fundamental part of the southwestern Californian landscape that supports biodiversity and offers numerous benefits. Understanding and preserving this species is crucial for environmental sustainability in the region.

Common Names

Eng: california black walnut, california walnut, southern california walnut, southern california black walnut, northern california black walnut
En: California walnut, Southern California black walnut, Southern California walnut, California black walnut, Northern California Black Walnut
: Southern california walnut

Synonyms

Distribution

• California (native)
• North Caucasus (introduced)
• Tadzhikistan (introduced)
• Transcaucasus (introduced)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Nov 16, 2022 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 29, 2021 by Anjelika Solé (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 17, 2022 by Thomas__ (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 5, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 17, 2022 by Thomas__ (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken May 10, 2014 by EOL − Cedric Lee (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Nov 4, 1999 by EOL − Donald Myrick (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Nov 16, 2022 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 16, 2022 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 1, 2022 by Kathya Argueta (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Sep 20, 2012 by EOL − Paris Merin (cc-by-nc)

Taken Sep 21, 2012 by EOL − Paris Merin (cc-by-nc)

Taken Sep 20, 2012 by EOL − Paris Merin (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 20, 2013 by EOL − Rebecca Marschall (cc-by-nc)

Taken Nov 16, 2022 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Aug 10, 2022 by Martin Martin (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 29, 2016 by EOL − James Bailey (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 29, 2016 by EOL − James Bailey (cc-by-nc)

Taken Oct 5, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 5, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Aug 12, 2021 by Serena boettcher (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 8, 2022 by Snide Sally (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 17, 2022 by Thomas__ (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 5, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 17, 2022 by Thomas__ (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3054354)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30014392-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Juglans californica S. Watson)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Tree, Shrub

Growth