California Walnut Varieties

Chandler

• The Chandler walnut is the most widely-produced walnut in California. This walnut variety was developed in 1979 by the University of California and named after University of California at Davis professor W.H. Chandler. This nut is large and oval-shaped with a smooth shell. People prize Chandler walnuts because they have a high yield, along with high-quality and light kernels.

Hartley

• The Hartley walnut is considered the classic California walnut because it has been being produced commercially since the early 1900s. In fact, the Hartley walnut won first prize at the 1915 World's Fair. This nut is largely sold in-shell, rather than already shelled because it has a thin shell that is easy to crack.

Payne

• Another walnut variety that is common in California is the Payne walnut. This nut is harvested early in the season, before many other varieties are ready to produce. Its trees also yield a large number of walnuts, making this variety attractive to commercial walnut growers. The fast-growing Payne walnut trees often need lots of pruning, however. Payne walnuts are medium to small in size.

Serr

• The Serr walnut is also often found growing in California. This walnut is large in size, with its kernels weighing more than 7 grams. Serr walnut trees can grow in hot climates and in marginal soils, which makes them a good fit for some areas of California. This walnut tree is also resistant to sunburn, unlike many other walnut varieties, making it a hardy option.