Chandler is the dominant commercial English walnut cultivar in California and much of the world, released by the University of California, Davis in 1979. It is prized for its exceptionally high yields of large, well-sealed nuts with light-colored, high-quality kernels that command premium prices. Chandler is lateral-bearing, meaning it fruits along the length of its shoots rather than only at the tips, which greatly increases production, and it leafs out late enough to escape spring frosts and much walnut blight infection. The nuts have thin, smooth, light shells that crack easily to yield plump, pale kernels. Requiring warm summers and a suitable pollinizer such as Franquette, Chandler is the benchmark walnut for orchards and larger permaculture plantings in warm-temperate climates.
Flavor Profile
Mild, sweet, buttery kernel with very light color; considered premium dessert and eating quality.
Visual Characteristics
Large, oval, light-colored nuts with thin well-sealed shells and plump pale kernels on a spreading tree.
Growing Tips
Lateral-bearing and late-leafing to dodge frost and blight. Needs warm summers and a pollinizer such as Franquette.
Resistance Information
Disease Resistance
Late leafing helps it escape much walnut blight infection.
Where to Buy
Sourcing information coming soon. Check local nurseries and seed banks for availability.