Butternut is very susceptible to butternut canker, a lethal disease. This disease, caused by an introduced fungus (Ophiognomonia clavigignenti-juglandacearum), has killed off many native stands of butternut. Butternut is not recommended for planting anywhere in its native range as the disease is found throughout that area. This species, also called white walnut, is a native tree found throughout the Midwest in moist, well-drained soils. The tree is related to black walnut and is also allelopathic. Butternut is prized for its wood. The fruit produces a yellow dye that was used in the Civil War to color uniforms. This species is native to the Chicago Region according to Swink and Wilhelm’s Plants of the Chicago Region, with updates made according to current research.
To find suitable replacements for this tree, go to The Morton Arboretum’s tree and plant finder. Before purchasing or planting, be sure to check for any local or state guidelines, and ensure that this plant is suitable for its habitat by reviewing planting considerations or by finding it in the USDA Plants Database.
- Family (English) Walnut
- Family (botanic) Juglandaceae
- Tree or plant type Tree
- Foliage Deciduous (seasonally loses leaves)
- Native locale Chicago area, Illinois, North America
- Size range Large tree (more than 40 feet)
- Mature height 40-60 feet
- Mature width 30-50 feet
- Light exposure Full sun (6 hrs direct light daily), Partial sun / shade (4-6 hrs light daily)
- Hardiness zones Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5 (Northern Illinois), Zone 6 (City of Chicago), Zone 7
- Soil preference Alkaline soil, Moist, well-drained soil
- Tolerances Alkaline soil, Dry sites, Wet sites
- Season of interest early fall
- Flower color and fragrance Inconspicuous
- Shape or form Round
- Growth rate Moderate
- Transplants well No
- Planting considerations Excessive sucker growth
- Wildlife Birds, Browsers, Insect pollinators, Small mammals
- Has cultivars Yes
