Butternut
Juglans cinerea

Description

Juglans cinerea, or butternut, native to eastern and midwestern North America, Ontario, is currently endangered due to the invasive butternut canker disease, which has devastated its population. It prefers deep, moist, well-drained soil, preferably with alkaline conditions to accommodate for their long tap root. While restoration efforts are underway, planting should be approached with caution, as the disease is widespread. Black walnut closely resembles butternut and provides a safer planting alternative, as butternut is also prone to blight, fire, storm damage, and grackle damage. Butternuts tolerate drought and browsing by rabbits but produce juglone, toxic to other plants. It sheds abundant leaves and hard-shelled nuts, leaving significant debris and residues on nearby surfaces, making it extremely messy. Despite these challenges, the tree has historical value, with its fruit once used for dye and its sap boiled for syrup.
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Planting Site and Native Range

Planting Site
Naturalization, Highway

Management Notes

Management Notes
Highly susceptible to Butternut Canker Fruit litter may be an issue

Tree Characteristics

Growth Rate
Moderately (30cm- 60cm per year)
Width
9 - 15m
Height
12 - 18m
Soil Quantity
>30 m
Leaves
Deciduous

Insects and Diseases

Insects and Diseases
Not recommended due to butternut canker. This species is only really recommended for planting in naturalization projects to maintain its population.

Tree Tolerances

Soil Salt Tolerance
Unknown
Salt Spray Tolerance
Unknown
Flooding Tolerance
Moderate
Drought Tolerance
Moderate
pH Tolerance
Tolerant of acid to alkaline soil (5.0 to 8.0)
Shade Tolerance
Full Sun Part Shade
Plant Hardiness Zone
Zone 3 (a/b) | Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
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