Juglans regia
My housing estate stands on an old fruit research station that was run by Bristol University for exactly 100 years until its closure in 2003. The streets names include brambly, perry and blackcurrant.
There are a few trees remaining, including a row of pear trees from which the first Babycham was created. There are a row of hornbeams and a couple of walnut trees and a very tall Dawn Redwood. Sadly, no blackcurrants are left from the first Ribena farm, (though I have planted some).
The smaller of the walnuts grows at what would have been the old gateway. It’s on the corner of Wild Country Lane and on a popular cycle route. I found myself behind the old metal railing, looking a little shifty, and in absolute awe of the beauty of the newly opening leaf buds.
They are very photogenic and would make lovely models for artists who enjoy drawing nature.
Read my short Walnut Leaf Tea article here, or watch my accompanying video. You’ll also find some stunning photographs to aid your plant ID and lift your spirits!
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