Pterocarya fraxinifolia - Caucasia Walnut

A member of the walnut family the Pterocarya are picturesque fast growing large, tall deciduous trees with large pinnate leaves which can be as long as 60cm with around 19 to 21 oblong pointed leaves up to 15cm long.

Pairs of semi-orbicular wings on the nuts are a distinctive feature which mature in late summer to early autumn but often persist on the tree into winter hanging among the foliage in 50cm strings.

In winter the tree can be identified by its naked buds often flanked by small pale brown scaly leaves. In its native Iran it is often found growing by rivers, so its favoured position is in a moist, almost boggy, soil where it can get plenty of light. Best for parks or large commercial plantings due to its size.

FACT: Due to the similarity of leaf it is often mistaken as an Ash. Suckers that the tree throws out are a feature but can cause problems especially on lawns.