Butternut
Juglans cinerea L. Noyer cendré

Description
Butternut is best identified by its large compound leaf with 11 to 17 leaflets. The trees crown is broad with many wide-spreading branches.

Habitat
Butternut thrives in fertile, moist, well-drained soil along streams and rivers. Occasionally, they are found on dry, rocky ridges where the soil is rich in lime.
Shade Tolerance: Low
Moisture Preference: Moderate
Soil: Rich loam
ph Level: Alkaline to neutral
Salt Tolerance: Low
Pollution Tolerance: Moderate Hardiness Zone: 3

Aesthetics
Form: A beautiful, moderately tall tree with stout trunk and wide-spreading branches.
Foliage: Attractive compound leaf, fragrant and often fuzzy.

Height: 21m
Life Expectancy: 60-80 yrs

Planting Benefits
Butternut is a moderate to fast-growing tree, preferring full sun and rich, organic soil. With a tap and deep spreading roots, this tree should be Mature
transplanted bareroot when young or by container.
Shade: The large leaves and broad canopy require ample growing space in parks, or on farms and country property.
Nuts: Largest edible nut, found in clusters ripening and falling in the early fall.
Reforestation: A short-lived tree that will add diversity and value to natural areas, parks, and woodlots.

Wildlife
The nuts are one of the favourite foods of squirrels and chipmunks, with over a dozen different kinds of birds feeding on the remaining crumbs.

Uses and Lore
Native people roasted, crushed and boiled the butternuts in water, removing the oil on the surface, which cooled to a butter-like consistency. The trees can be tapped in spring to make a sweet syrup.