Heartnut Seedling

Species: Juglans ailantifolia var. cordiformis

History: Heartnuts are a sport of the Japanese Walnut that have a heart-shaped shell and kernel instead of the usual elliptical shell. They have good commercial potential in the Great Lakes area where the climate is similar to that of Japan.

Why We Grow It: These trees produce an abundance of tasty heart-shaped nuts that are sweet than other walnuts and lack the bitter aftertaste. They are sensitive to spring frosts for nut production, so they are best planted in a sheltered location.

Canadian Hardiness Zone: 5b

Soil Preference: Prefers rich loam but adaptable to different kinds of soil

Growth Habits and Disease Resistance: Tree generally reaches 20m tall but can get up to 30m, hardier than English Walnuts. Resistant to Butternut Canker but susceptible to Walnut Bunch Disease. 

Sun/Shade: Full sun (approx. 8-10 hours of sun daily)

Pollination: Requires another Heartnut tree for pollination in order to produce nuts

Ripens: Late June to early July

Storage: Keeps up to three months in the fridge

Recommended Use: Fresh eating, cooking, baking

Height not including roots: 30cm+