Black walnut tree named HPC-148

#This invention relates to a new and distinct variety of American black walnut tree (Juglans nigra L.).

#In 1975, I planted a variety of seedlings that I obtained from the Missouri State Nursery in Licking along with some additional seedlings I had in a plantation in Cedar County, Mo. The seedlings I obtained from the Missouri State Nursery were approximately one year old and were labeled as "super seedlings" or "nursery run". As the trees developed and began to bear fruit, I recognized that the parent tree of this invention had improved characteristics. My interest and experience with American black walnut trees led me to realize that this tree was a unique and distinct development.

#Subsequently in 1989, I asexually reproduced the tree of the present invention taking scions from the parent tree and grafting these on to an unpatented American black walnut tree root stock in Cedar County, Mo. The asexual reproductions ran true to the parent tree and to each other in all respects.

#FIG. 1 is a photograph showing the timber form of parent tree of this invention at age 21.

#FIG. 2 is a photograph showing the nuts from the parent tree of this invention.

#FIG. 3 is a bar graph of the walnut bearing characteristic of the parent tree of of this invention with 933 other black walnut trees grown in the same block/area.

#Tree: The tree is large when compared to other black walnut trees of this species and has a fairly well developed open grown crown. The tree exhibits modest growth and is very productive. Additionally the tree is well formed and is approximately 42 feet high, has a diameter of 11.5 inches diameter at breast height (dbh) and a spread of approximately 33 feet. The tree produces annually and has good leaf retention late into the growing season. Finally, the tree is strong and resistant to wind and ice damage.

#Trunk: The trunk of the tree is like that of other black walnut trees of this species. The bark is grooved and fissured and has a lacy pattern that tends to be gray in color. The old bark is gray in color and has a grooved, interwoven and lacy texture with a thickness of approximately 1 inch. In contrast, the new bark is light brown to gray in color, has a fairly smooth texture and is approximately 1/4 inches thick.

#Branches: The form of the branches is the same as other black walnut trees of this species. The tree does not have any bad branch angles. The branches have a relatively smooth texture.