Stop 5 of 20

The walnut tree

When the City Park was being built in the 1870s, there were already some trees in the area. Over by the high hedge stood five walnut trees that were already almost 100 years old!

In July 1931, a storm destroyed the entire park. About 40 trees were destroyed, about one-third of the park. Of the five walnut trees, only one survived. It is the tree standing over there by the hedge, braced with iron bands. It has been damaged but survived nonetheless.

This walnut tree was planted in 1799, and it still produces fine edible walnuts every year.

Good to know

Extra background — not part of the original printed guide.

Kalmar lies at the northern edge of where common walnut (Juglans regia) reliably ripens fruit — a tree this productive is unusual at this latitude.
Walnut roots and leaves release juglone, a natural compound that suppresses many other plants nearby — which is why little grows directly under a big walnut.

On to the next stop

Let's keep walking together. Ahead of us is the Gustav Vasa Monument, with the pyramid oaks and the Caucasian wingnut. You can't miss it.

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