The walnut tree family (Juglans) consists of 21 species that are distributed worldwide, with seeds known as walnuts. One walnut species originating from Asia is Juglans ailantifolia, better known as the Japanese walnut. A specific selection of this species is the herznuss (Cardiocaryon), which is distinguished by the heart-shaped cross-section of the half-shell. This walnut has been extensively cultivated, crossbred, and further selected, resulting in a wide range of Juglans ailantifolia var. cord. available. Due to breeding on different rootstocks, these trees vary in appearance, growth behavior, fertility, and taste. De Nootsaeck offers a selection of heartnut varieties that can be planted as garden trees and produce particularly tasty nuts.
What Is Typical for Heartnut Trees?
The blooming period of these impressive deciduous trees occurs in May and is a beautiful sight, as the male catkins are already visible when the leaves begin to emerge. Heartnut trees grow best in soil with a pH value between 5.9 and 7 and cannot tolerate waterlogging. Depending on the rootstock and location, trees can vary in height. Heartnut trees are low-maintenance shade and privacy trees. Some varieties remain small, making them suitable for smaller gardens.
Our heartnut trees stand out with their light green, remarkably large leaves, and some varieties are highly winter-hardy. The heartnut is also edible and has a delicious sweet taste. After at least 12 years, they can reach a height of over 14 meters, depending on the growing conditions. These walnut trees have light gray grooved bark, and with bright green and large leaves, they make an impressive appearance.
The Heartnut Tree Selection at De Nootsaeck
Heartnut Tree 'Grimo Mandshurica'
Juglans mandshurica is native to China, north of the Huang He, and North Korea and serves as the basis for the Canadian hybrid developed by GrimoNut Nursery. This cultivated tree has a compact growth habit, can grow 15 to 20 meters tall, and is ideal for a large, open garden. The tree features light gray, grooved bark and remarkably large, light green leaves. The easily cracked nuts measure 4 to 5 cm, and the kernel can be removed whole from the shell.
Heartnut Tree 'Kalmar'
The 'Kalmar' heartnut tree originates from Sweden. This variety is suitable for northern regions and is highly winter-hardy. It is a healthy tree with medium-sized, easily cracked nuts. We recommend planting additional pollinating trees nearby to ensure a good yield.
Heartnut Tree 'Campbell CW 1'
The herznuss 'Campbell CW 1' is also a Juglans ailantifolia var. cord.. This variety originates from Ontario and is one of the famous breeding lines of the breeder Doug Campbell. This tree is notable for its distinctly heart-shaped nuts. 'Campbell CW 1' is a healthy, fertile tree with medium-sized, easily cracked heartnuts. Pollinating walnut trees are recommended, as the male and female flowers do not bloom at the same time. This robust and productive walnut tree is also winter-hardy.
Heartnut Tree Juglans bixbyi 'Mitchell'
The 'Mitchell' heartnut hybrid is a strong crossbreed between Juglans cinerea (butternut) and Juglans ailantifolia. It also belongs to the Juglans ailantifolia var. cord. and originates from Ohio, USA. This hybrid with cluster-like flowering blooms in May and is self-pollinating, meaning no additional heartnut trees are needed nearby for pollination. The heart-shaped butternut 'Mitchell' grows quickly and is a healthy tree. The nuts, which have a sweet taste, are easy to crack and remove from the shell.
Heartnut Tree Juglans microcarpa 'Dolly'
Completely different is the exotic-looking 'Dolly', which is more commonly planted as an ornamental tree than for its nuts. This extremely rare heartnut selection is based on the Texas walnut, which grows more like a shrub or small tree. It does not grow taller than 10 meters. Its thin branches and lanceolate feathered leaves make it a distinctive tree. Dry periods should be supplemented with extra watering until the taproot is fully developed. 'Dolly' blooms after the leaves emerge.
Choosing Your Heartnut Tree
Would you like to create your own heartnut oasis? The choice of variety is highly personal, as each garden and green space in a residential area offers different conditions. We assist you in finding the right heartnut tree and selecting from the wide variety of species and cultivars. When choosing, consider height, space requirements, yield, taste, and growth speed.
Heartnuts have the advantage of being easy to crack, allowing the kernel to remain intact. They make a delicious homegrown snack.
Visit our show garden and get inspired. By viewing different walnut trees, you can choose your favorite more easily. Schedule an appointment and receive expert advice.
Buy Your Heartnut Tree Online
The online shop of De Nootsaeck offers you the convenience of choosing your walnut tree from home. We ensure that you receive high-quality nursery products, guaranteeing rapid growth of container trees. We deliver to any desired address in the Netherlands.
If you have questions about purchasing heartnut trees, we are happy to assist you.
