Guide Note

Walnuts come from several species of tree in the genus Juglans -- especially Juglans regia, which produces the commercially-dominant English Walnut. Walnuts have an inedible but often aromatic husk which is removed during processing.

Fast Facts

1. Rich in Omega 3 fatty acids
2. High in protein
3. Walnut oil is esteemed for cooking
4. Good for cardiovascular health
5. Walnut tree is prized for beauty

Ironically enough, the English walnut is not native to England, but probably to the region of Kyrgyzstan, and the Germanic word 'walnut' seems to mean 'foreign nut.' It has been used and cultivated since antiquity, and has been known in Western Europe since Roman times. English walnuts were introduced to North America in the 1600s, despite the native black walnuts and butternuts that were already in abundance. They are used in confections and desserts, and as an essential component of mixed nuts assortments, both unshelled and shelled.