Chinese Chestnut

(Castanea mollissima)

Chinese Chestnut (Castanea mollissima)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Castanea mollissima, commonly known as Chinese Chestnut, is a deciduous tree native to a variety of habitats in East Asia, including forest edges, slopes, and valleys. It can grow up to 20 meters tall and develops a broad, rounded crown. The tree is notable for its long catkins, which measure 4–20 cm and feature female flowers at the base and male flowers on the remainder. The fruit is a spiny cupule, 4–8 cm in diameter, containing two or three glossy brown nuts that are 2–3 cm in diameter on wild trees. The species name ’mollissima’ refers to the soft down on the shoots and young leaves. Chinese Chestnut is valued for its edible nuts and is also used in reforestation projects and as an ornamental tree due to its attractive form and foliage.

In cultivation, the Chinese Chestnut thrives in full sun and requires medium amounts of water, preferring well-drained soils. It is often planted for its nuts, which are a popular food source, and as a shade tree in larger landscapes. The tree is relatively low-maintenance but can be susceptible to chestnut blight, a serious fungal disease. To mitigate this risk, it is important to source disease-resistant varieties and maintain proper care.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 30-40 feet
  • Width: 40-50 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Cream, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Hedges, Rabbit Resistant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Forest edges, slopes, and valleys in East Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Chinese Hairy Chestnut, Chinesische Kastanie, Castaño Chino, Châtaignier De Chine, 약밤나무, 板栗, Ban Li, Shinaguri

Scientific Names: , Castanea mollissima, Castanea bungeana, Castanea formosana, Castanea duclouxii, Castanea sativa var. formosana, Castanea sativa var. intermedia, Castanea hupehensis, Castanea mollissima subsp. pendula, Castanea mollissima var. pendula

GBIF Accepted Name: Castanea mollissima Blume