Phenotypic variation in native walnut populations of Northern Albania

Juglans regia L. (Juglandaceae) germplasm from the region of Dibra, located in the northeastern part of Albania, was evaluated to determine the variability in walnut germplasm and to identify promising material for preservation. Considerable genetic variation in pomological and phenological characteristics was found in native trees which were of seedling origin. Variability found in nut weight was between 3.8 and 21.1 g, in kernel weight between 1.85 and 9.8 g, in weight kernel/weight nut ratio between 32.6 and 63.8% and in fat content between 42.0 and 71.5%. Nut size, bud breaking time, nut maturity time and phenological characteristics, were also evaluated. The obtained data indicate that the walnut trees studied in this region fall into seven botanical varieties.