Butternut (White Walnut) vs Kentucky Coffeetree - TreeTime.ca

Butternut (White Walnut) vs Kentucky Coffeetree

Gymnocladus dioicus

Juglans cinerea

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Kentucky Coffeetree
Butternut (White Walnut)

The Kentucky Coffeetree has the largest leaves of any native tree in North America! In the summer, its large green canopy provides shade. While in the winter, its leathery bean pods act as a decorative element against the sky as they rattle in the wind. Beautiful year-round, this tree is an elegant addition to any landscape.

Butternut is one of the few walnut varieties native to Canada. The nuts are sought after for their mild, sweet, and oily taste. Ensure this tree is planted in full sun and well-drained soil for best results.

Butternut is self-fertile but it has better yields when planted near other butternuts. It can survive in zone 2, but reliably produces nuts in zone 3.

Kentucky Coffeetree Quick Facts

Butternut (White Walnut) Quick Facts

Zone: 3a
Zone: 2b
Height: 21 m (70 ft)
Height: 25 m (82 ft)
Spread: 15 m (50 ft)
Spread: 8 m (27 ft)
Light: full sun
Light: full sun
Moisture: dry, normal
Moisture: dry, normal
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: fast
Life span: long
Life span: medium
Suckering: high
Suckering: none
Maintenance: medium

Toxicity: Uncooked pods are toxic to humans

Nuts: brown shell, edible
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


Native to: ON
Native to: ON, QC, NB
Other Names: coffeetree
Other Names: demon walnut, oilnut, white walnut