Manchurian Walnut vs Burton Hican

Manchurian Walnut is a large, broad and often multi-stemmed tree with ornamental qualities. This tree produces large, thick-shelled nuts that ripen in the fall. These edible walnuts are reportedly difficult to crack open. They are useful for attracting wildlife, especially squirrels.

The Manchurian Walnut contains and exudes much lesser quantities of allelopathic compounds, such as juglone (common to walnuts), that may prevent or impair growth of nearby plants. Therefore, it is commonly embraced as a safe walnut to plant.

There are reports of rare this species surviving winters to -45C with specimens growing and thriving in Alaska and Edmonton.

There is no regular supply of this species. It is rare and not produced each year.

Burton Hican is a rare cross between Shagbark Hickory and Pecan. Most Hickory x Pecan hybrids are not reliable producers but the Burton Hican produces large crops annually (in warmer climates). The medium sized nuts fall in between the Pecan and Hickory and are known for having a great flavor. They are well suited to fresh eating, cooking, and baking with a good storage life.

Hicans will carry features from both species. The Hickory influence causes earlier ripening times while the taste and productivity come from the Pecan. The Pecan genetics also cause the nuts to have a thinner shell that is easier to crack and the pecan-like shape makes kernel removal easier.

The Burton Hican is generally considered self pollinating but having a second variety for cross pollination will increase nut production. They have been known to cross pollinate with other Hicans, Shagbark Hickory, and some Pecans. Nut production is expected after 7-10 years.

Note: Plant this tree once. Due to its large tap root transplanting is not recommended.

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