Common walnut

Moldova is one of the world’s leading exporters of shelled walnuts – rows of walnut trees line the roads and grow in every village.

A stately tree reaching 25 m, with a broad, domed crown, silvery-grey bark and large pinnate leaves with an odd terminal leaflet and a strong, distinctive smell. The fruit is a drupe whose green, pigment-rich husk splits in autumn, releasing a hard shell containing an edible, oil-rich seed. The leaves and husks contain juglone, which inhibits the growth of other plants beneath the crown. Walnut wood is one of the most valuable furniture timbers.

Significance in the country

Walnuts are one of Moldova’s most important exports, and the country specialises in hand-cracked, light-coloured walnut halves. Avenues of walnut trees along the roads and trees beside village farmsteads are a typical feature of the Moldovan landscape.

Where it grows

Throughout the country – in orchards, along roads and in home gardens; the largest modern plantations have been established in central and northern Moldova.

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