Butternut
Deciduous tree reaching 15-25 m tall. Features compound leaves and produces edible nuts enclosed in sticky, elongated husks. Prefers rich, moist, well-drained soils and full sun. Provides food for wildlife. Historically valued for its wood and medicinally. Currently threatened by butternut canker disease. Suitable for large landscapes and reforestation projects where disease is not prevalent. Native to eastern North America.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: Green (catkins)
Bloom Time: Spring
Sun Requirements: Sun
Moisture: Moist-Drained
Phenology: Leaves emerge late May. Male catkins appear with leaves. Female flowers develop with leaves. Nuts mature September-October. Yellow fall color develops early October.
Wildlife Value: Nuts important food source for squirrels, bears, and other mammals; provides nesting sites for larger birds
Habit Over Time: Develops into a broad-crowned tree with an open, irregular branching pattern. While the canopy creates light shade, it allows enough light penetration for understory plantings. The root system produces juglone, which can inhibit growth of sensitive plants nearby. Branch structure becomes increasingly sculptural with age, providing strong winter interest.
Height: Tall (40-60 feet)