PRODUCTION POSSIBILITIES OF THE BLACK WALNUT (JUGLANS NIGRA L.) IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC: REVIEW

Black walnut (Juglans nigra L.) is an introduced north-American species with highly valuated timber. In the Czech Republic, it occupies cca 1,000 ha only, particularly in the flood-plain area of south Moravia. Comparing to native tree species, black walnut shows high volume and value production. On the contrary, it is exposed to pressure from the part of environmentalist organizations, due to growth at the valuable sites. Aim of the presented study is the summarization of available data from abroad as well as from the Czech Republic, to gather information concerning the production potential and environmental effects of this species in Czech conditions. The study summarizes literature sources concerning volume and volume production as well as the available data on environmental effects, especially effects of black walnut on the plant communities in the forest ecosystems. Results document the excellent production potential of this species in proper conditions and conditions for minimizing risks for the forest environment. More attention should be paid to this species in the Czech conditions, its position in the Czech forestry should increase in restricted controlled extent.