Date: 2011-06-01
Gene Wengert, ewengert@wisc.edu
Beautiful wood, but going extinct.
Butternut (Juglans cinera) is a tree that is more valuable for its sweet oily tasting nuts than for its lumber. In fact, the genus name “juglans” means “nut of Jupiter.” The nuts (oval shaped, compared to the round walnuts) are very tasty, having a sweet, buttery taste, hence the common name.
Regiments of Confederate soldiers used butternut dye, obtained from the nuts and the rinds, to color their clothing, explaining why the were sometimes referred to as “Butternuts,” a somewhat derisive name.
The tree, found from Canada and the U.S. east of the Mississippi River, has a life span of less than 75 years. In recent years, a fungus (bark canker) has been attacking the trees at young ages, with extensive death occurring. Eventually, this species will be on the endangered species list.
In the spring, the tree can be tapped for excellent syrup.
Butternut wood is very stable with little tendency to warp or crack in use. Two important past uses of the wood have been for church altars and for wood carvers, especially for duck decoys. Today, carving uses continue along with furniture, curios, millwork and paneling. The softness limits its use in situations where impact risks are high, such as a desk or table top. Although supplies are not plentiful, this can be an excellent show wood where moderate character is desired and strength is not critical.
Updated: Sep 11, 2011
This article appeared in CabinetMakerFDM, August 2011. ©Copyright 2012, All Rights Reserved.