Saksanpähkinäpuu

Saksanpähkinäpuu, scientifically known as Juglans regia, is a deciduous tree native to a wide area extending from the Balkans eastward to the Himalayas and southwestern China. It is also known by common names such as common walnut, Persian walnut, or English walnut. This species is widely cultivated for its highly valued timber and edible nuts.

The tree is large, reaching heights of 25 to 35 meters, with a trunk diameter that can exceed 2 meters. Its bark is smooth and silvery-gray when young, becoming deeply fissured with age. The leaves are pinnately compound, typically with 5 to 9 leaflets, and have a characteristic aromatic scent when crushed. The Saksanpähkinäpuu is monoecious, meaning it has both male and female flowers on the same tree. Male flowers are borne in drooping catkins, while female flowers are borne in short spikes.

The fruit of the Saksanpähkinäpuu is a drupe, commonly referred to as a walnut. The fleshy outer husk of the fruit is green and leathery, enclosing a hard, woody shell that contains the edible kernel. The nuts are typically harvested in the autumn.

Economically, the Saksanpähkinäpuu is significant for its hardwood, which is prized for furniture, cabinetry, and decorative veneers due to its attractive grain and durability. The edible walnuts are a rich source of protein, healthy fats, and various nutrients, making them a popular food item and a valuable agricultural product in many regions. The tree is also used ornamentally in parks and gardens.