Heartnut

/ˈhɑːrtnʌt/ noun

Definition

A tropical tree (Juglans ailantifolia var. cordiformis) native to Japan and Manchuria, or the heart-shaped nut it produces.

Etymology

From 'heart' plus 'nut,' named for the distinctive heart shape of the nuts produced by this Asian walnut tree. The scientific name reflects both its genus (Juglans, walnut) and its heart-shaped fruit.

Kelly Says

Many plants and animals get their names from their shapes or characteristics—the 'heartnut' is called that because its nuts literally look like hearts, and scientists gave it the Latin name 'cordiformis' (cord = heart) to describe this feature.

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