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Description
Juglans Microcarpa, commonly known as the little walnut or Texas walnut, is a deciduous tree native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It belongs to the Juglandaceae family and is closely related to the black walnut and the English walnut. The tree typically grows up to 50 feet tall and has a rounded crown with a spread of 30 to 40 feet.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Juglandaceae |
| Genus | Juglans |
Appearance
The leaves of Juglans Microcarpa are compound and alternate, with 11 to 19 leaflets that are dark green and shiny on top and pale and hairy underneath. The tree produces male and female flowers separately on the same tree, with the male flowers being catkins and the female flowers being small and green. The fruit is a small, round nut with a hard, thick shell that is covered in a green husk that turns brown as it matures.
Care Guide
Juglans Microcarpa prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. It should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season, and more often during periods of drought. The tree requires regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer, applied in early spring and mid-summer. It grows best in full sun and can tolerate a range of hardiness zones, from 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Juglans Microcarpa is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including walnut twig beetle, walnut caterpillar, walnut husk fly, anthracnose, and leaf spot. Regular monitoring and maintenance, including pruning and pest control measures, can help prevent and manage these issues.
Habitat
Juglans Microcarpa is native to the southwestern United States, including Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California, as well as northern Mexico. It grows in a variety of habitats, including canyons, valleys, and foothills, and is often found growing alongside other trees and shrubs.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Juglans Microcarpa edible?
A: Yes, the nuts of Juglans Microcarpa are edible and have a rich, nutty flavor.
Q: Can Juglans Microcarpa be grown in containers?
A: While it is possible to grow Juglans Microcarpa in containers, it is not recommended, as the tree requires a large amount of space and soil to grow to its full potential.
Q: How long does it take for Juglans Microcarpa to produce nuts?
A: Juglans Microcarpa typically begins producing nuts after 5 to 7 years of growth.
Q: Is Juglans Microcarpa a good shade tree?
A: Yes, Juglans Microcarpa is a great shade tree, with its wide, spreading crown providing ample shade for outdoor spaces.
Related Plants
- Juglans nigra (Black walnut)
- Juglans regia (English walnut)
- Juglans hindsii (Hinds’ black walnut)
- Juglans californica (Southern California black walnut)
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: Their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Publishing.
- Gilman, E. F., & Watson, D. G. (1994). Juglans microcarpa. Fact Sheet ST-466. Environmental Horticulture Department, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida.
- Little, E. L., & Wadsworth, F. H. (1964). Trees of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands (Vol. 2). US Department of Agriculture, Forest Service.
