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Description
Juglans Cinerea, commonly known as Butternut, is a deciduous tree that is native to eastern North America. It belongs to the walnut family, Juglandaceae, and can grow up to 60 feet tall. The tree has a short trunk and a broad, spreading crown. The bark is grayish-brown and develops deep furrows with age. The leaves are pinnate, with 11-17 leaflets that are ovate-lanceolate in shape. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in the spring that develop into edible nuts in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukarya||————|—————|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Spermatophyta || Class| Magnoliopsida || Order| Fagales|| Family| Juglandaceae|| Genus| Juglans|| Species| Juglans cinerea |
Appearance
The Butternut tree has a distinctive appearance, with a broad, spreading crown and a short trunk. The bark is grayish-brown and develops deep furrows with age. The leaves are pinnate, with 11-17 leaflets that are ovate-lanceolate in shape. The leaflets are dark green, with a slightly serrated edge. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in the spring that develop into edible nuts in the fall. The nuts are oval-shaped and covered in a thick, green husk.
Care Guide
Butternut trees are relatively easy to care for. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and full sun. The tree should be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought. Fertilizer can be applied in the early spring to promote healthy growth. The tree is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Butternut trees are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including butternut canker, a fungal disease that can kill the tree. Other common pests and diseases include walnut husk fly, walnut curculio, and walnut caterpillars. Regular inspection and treatment can help prevent these problems.
Habitat
Butternut trees are native to eastern North America, where they can be found in mixed forests, along riverbanks, and in other moist, well-drained areas. The tree grows best in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Are Butternuts edible?
A: Yes, Butternuts are edible and have a sweet, nutty flavor.
Q: How long does it take for a Butternut tree to produce nuts?
A: Butternut trees typically begin producing nuts after 10-15 years.
Q: Can Butternut trees be grown in containers?
A: It is not recommended to grow Butternut trees in containers, as they require a lot of space to grow and develop.
Q: How can I prevent Butternut canker disease?
A: Butternut canker disease can be prevented by keeping the tree healthy and avoiding damage to the bark. Regular inspection and treatment can also help prevent the disease.
Related Plants
– Juglans regia (English Walnut)- Juglans nigra (Black Walnut)- Carya illinoinensis (Pecan)- Corylus avellana (Hazelnut)
References
– “Butternut.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c690.- “Juglans Cinerea.” Plant Finder, www.plantfinder.sunset.com/plant-details/1878/juglans-cinerea.
