Butternut
Juglans cinerea
Also known as: White Walnut, Oil Nut
Butternut is a soft, light North American hardwood often called White Walnut for its lighter color than black walnut. Valued for its ease of carving and light weight, it has been used for furniture and carving since colonial times. The species is now threatened by butternut canker disease, making it increasingly rare.
Botanical Profile
Juglans cinerea is a deciduous tree native to eastern North America, typically reaching 15-25 meters in height. It produces edible nuts encased in sticky husks and has compound leaves with 11-19 leaflets. The tree thrives in rich, moist soils and has a shorter lifespan than black walnut.
Physical Properties
The heartwood is light tan to medium brown with pale cream sapwood. It has a medium to coarse texture with typically straight grain. Dried weight averages 450 kg/m³ with a Janka hardness of 490 lbf, making it one of the softest North American hardwoods.
Workshop Notes
Blunting Effect
Low - soft wood, easy on tools
Gluing Advice
Excellent gluing properties
Finishing
Takes stains and finishes well, can darken with age
Steam Bending
Good steam bending characteristics
Historical Context
Butternut was used by Native Americans and early settlers for food and wood. During the Civil War, Confederate soldiers wore butternut-dyed uniforms. Traditionally used for carving, furniture, and cabinetry, its use has declined due to disease and scarcity.
Technical Specs
Light tan to medium brown heartwood, pale cream sapwood
Threatened by butternut canker disease, limited availability