Butternut (White Walnut) vs European Hazelnut - TreeTime.ca

Butternut (White Walnut) vs European Hazelnut

Corylus avellana

Juglans cinerea

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European Hazelnut
Butternut (White Walnut)

European Hazelnut is a large shrub that is native to Europe. It is known for its edible nuts that ripen in late summer to early fall. The nuts can be eaten raw or roasted and have a sweet, earthy flavour. Nut production can start as early as 2-3 years but typically takes until at least 4 years for significant yields.

Catkins appear in late winter to early spring and as they release pollen it attracts bees and other pollinators. Since male and female flowers bloom at different times, multiple shrubs will have to be planted for cross pollination. It is recommended to plant European Hazelnut with other hazelnut varieties such as Beaked Hazelnut, Frank, Yamhill, and York. Planting with other varieties will increase nut production.

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.

A top CO2 absorbing species. Experts think this tree may help climate change more than others.

European Hazelnut Quick Facts

Butternut (White Walnut) Quick Facts

Zone: 4a
Zone: 2b
Height: 5 m (16 ft)
Height: 25 m (82 ft)
Spread: 4 m (12 ft)
Spread: 8 m (27 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: full sun
Moisture: normal
Moisture: dry, normal
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: fast
Life span: medium
Life span: medium
Suckering: medium
Suckering: none
Maintenance: medium
Maintenance: medium


Nuts: woody shelled with thin brown skin
Nuts: brown shell, edible
Flavor: sweet, with an earthy taste
Harvest: late summer - early fall
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: yes
Catkins: no


Other Names: cobnut, common filbert, common hazelnut, european filbert, european hazel
Other Names: demon walnut, oilnut, white walnut