Butternut

   Butternut (Juglans cinerea), sometimes called White Walnut, is indeed closely related to Black Walnut. While the difference is not black and white, the wood of Butternut is considerably lighter-colored than Black Walnut, as well as being very soft and lightweight. Butternut trees can usually be distinguished from Black Walnut by looking at its fruit: Butternut's fruit tends to be more oblong or oval shaped, while Walnut is nearly round. The fruit (nuts) from Butternut are generally regarded as being more valuable than its lumber. Some common uses for Butternut include: veneer, carving, furniture, interior trim, boxes, and crates.

   Butternut is easily worked with both hand and machine tools. However, being so soft, Butternut has a tendency to leave some fuzzy surfaces after planing or sanding, and sharp cutters and fine-grit sandpaper is recommended. Butternut glues, stains, and finishes well. Sometimes called White Walnut, Butternut is indeed closely related to Black Walnut.