The variety of trees that we can find worldwide is overwhelming. It is estimated that there are about 73.300 different species of trees, and this is only an approximation, because no one is able to give an exact figure, since it is estimated that there would be another 9.000 tree species to be discovered. Luckily, there is one that we do know well: the white walnut or juglans cinerea.
This is a species native to North America, but it is surely familiar to you, because it has ended up having a presence in many parts of the world. For this reason, we thought it would be interesting to get to know this type of tree a little better.
Origin and natural habitat of the white walnut
As we said, this is a tree native to North America, where it is common to see it growing wild in the eastern region of the continent, from the southeast of Canada to the northeast of the United States.
It is a very common species in the temperate forests of North America, where it plays an important role in the maintenance of ecosystems. Because its fruits are good food for birds, rodents and mammals, to which it also provides shelter. In addition, it is a tree with a high economic value, since its wood is highly appreciated in the market for its different uses.
Regarding its natural habitat, This is a tree that grows well in soils rich in organic matter. which, in addition, have a good capacity to maintain humidity. Hence its presence is common near rivers, streams and other humid areas.
Physical characteristics of these trees
We have already seen that the origin of white walnut trees is in North America, but this is an area where there are many native varieties. That's why, If we want to differentiate juglans cinerea from other varieties, Let's pay attention to these features.
Height
The measurements of this tree are not as surprising as those of other varieties, but That doesn't mean it's small. since it can exceed 20 meters in length.
Trunk
It is characterized by having a straight and cylindrical trunk, in which you can see a grayish bark that is divided into grooves and shallow cracks as the tree ages.
Type of leaves
The foliage of the white walnut tree is made up of alternate leaves composed of several leaflets that are arranged in a feather shape along a central axis.
This is a deciduous species that loses its leaves in autumn, just before the cold arrives and enters a dormant phase.
Flowers
The flowers of this tree are unisexual and appear in hanging catkins known as clusters. The male catkins are differentiated by being longer and thinner, while the feminine ones are shorter and thicker.
As they are unisexual flowers, for the white walnut tree to produce fruit it is necessary for the male flowers to pollinate the females.
Fruits
This is not a fruit tree but a fruit tree. Juglans cinerea produces butternut nuts or white walnuts. Prized for their smooth, buttery flavor (Hence the nickname “butter nut.”) The fruits appear in hanging clusters, with between three and five units each. They are short-tipped nuts that are covered with hair.
These nuts are very popular for being a great source of nutrients. And they are rich in healthy fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber. They can be consumed raw, toasted or cooked, and it is common to incorporate them into salads, breads and cakes.
The importance of white walnut wood
We have previously pointed out that this tree is highly appreciated commercially for the multiple uses that can be given to its wood.
It is a wood with a very distinctive color and grain, with tones ranging from the lightest to the darkest brown. In some cases it is even possible to see veins in gray or purple hues. Its grain is straight, but sometimes It can present wavy patterns that make this wood even more special.
Is a relatively hard and resistant wood, which offers good properties in terms of dimensional stability. That is to say, it is little prone to deformation in situations of humidity or temperature change.
Due to its resistance and durability, it is a highly appreciated variety for use both indoors and outdoors. Although it always requires an extra layer of protection so that it can better resist humidity and reduce the possibility of fungi appearing.
Another factor why it is so appreciated is because it is relatively easy to work with it using both manual and electric tools. Cuts, shapes and sands well, allowing its use in a wide variety of projects.
Among the common uses of this wood we can highlight:
- Furniture manufacturing.
- Preparation of sheets and moldings.
- Manufacture of hardwood floors.
- Interior coverings.
- Manufacture of quality firearms and cutlery.
- High-end musical instruments.
Is white walnut bark medicinal?
There are no scientific studies to corroborate this, but some indigenous cultures in North America have traditionally used the bark of this tree for medicinal purposes. Especially to treat intestinal parasites, and to treat infections in the mouth due to its antiseptic properties.
Its medicinal use is rather anecdotal and has not been studied, so all of the white walnut wood that It is obtained from the felling of forests It is intended for a commercial purpose in the field of carpentry and joinery.
White oak is a variety that is exploited commercially to take advantage of its wood and fruits. A very resistant tree that can live between 75 and 150 years in favorable conditions. As a curiosity, This tree establishes a symbiotic relationship with some mycorrhizal fungi, allowing you to obtain additional nutrients and improve your resistance to diseases and adverse conditions. Perhaps this curious association lies the key to its longevity. What do you think?