Butternut (White Walnut) vs Swamp White Oak - TreeTime.ca

Butternut (White Walnut) vs Swamp White Oak

Quercus bicolor

Juglans cinerea

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Swamp White Oak
Butternut (White Walnut)

The Swamp White Oak is a medium-sized deciduous tree native to North America. It is commonly found in swamps, lowlands, floodplains, and near streams and lakes. The leaves are two-toned, green on top and silvery-white on the undersides, adding to the visual appeal of this popular shade tree.

In the fall, the Swamp White Oak produces acorns which are an important food source for wildlife. It also provides a habitat for the larvae of many butterfly and moth species, playing an important ecological role. Although its growth is slow in the first few years, once the roots are established, it can achieve faster annual growth.

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.

Swamp White Oak Quick Facts

Butternut (White Walnut) Quick Facts

Zone: 4a
Zone: 2b
Height: 15 m (50 ft)
Height: 25 m (82 ft)
Spread: 15 m (50 ft)
Spread: 8 m (27 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: full sun
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: dry, normal
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: fast
Life span: long
Life span: medium
Suckering: none
Suckering: none
Maintenance: medium

Toxicity: mildly toxic to humans, cats, and dogs

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


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