Distinct variety of black walnut tree

Abstract

A new and distinct cultivar of black walnut tree (Juglans nigra L.) which is distinctly characterized by rapid growth rate, strong central stem tendency, average time in leafing, and outstanding straightness (little sweep and few crooks) thereby producing excellent timber qualities. The new variety has outstanding nut qualities as well such as abundant annual crops of large-sized nuts, begins nut-bearing early in life of tree, average 3 nuts per cluster, and produces kernels which exceed 20 percent of nut weight. The nuts are large and ripen early. The pistillate flowers mature early while pollen maturity is mid-season. In most years there is some overlap in female and male flowering. Flowering begins very early in the life of the tree. This new variety of black walnut tree was discovered by the applicant near Darlington, Ind. on land owned by Purdue University in a cultivated area. It occurred as a wild tree growing on land managed for timber-growing purposes and was discovered in the course of a search for unique and high quality black walnut trees to be utilized in breeding for outstanding timber qualities. This selection has been designated as BW55 in records maintained on the performance of grafts made from the original selection and will be known henceforth as "Purdue 1".

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A new and distinct variety of black walnut tree substantially as illustrated and described, which has excellent timber quality, is fast growing, has strong central stem tendency, little sweep, few crooks; earlier than average in time of leafing, pistillate flowers early, pollen sheds mid-season, produces abundant annual crops of large-size nuts; averages 3 per cluster, the percentage of weight of kernel to nut approximately on the average 20 percent; nut bearing begins early in life of tree.