Allegheny Chinquapin

(Castanea pumila)

Allegheny Chinquapin (Castanea pumila)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Castanea pumila, commonly known as Allegheny Chinquapin, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to dry upland forests, slopes, and ridges in the Eastern, southern and central areas of the United States. It typically grows 2–8 m (6 ft 7 in – 26 ft 3 in) tall, with a rounded crown and a moderate growth rate. The leaves are simple, narrowly oval, and have sharply toothed margins. The Allegheny Chinquapin produces monoecious flowers in early summer; male flowers are small, pale yellow to white, borne on erect catkins 10–15 cm (4–6 in) long, while female flowers are inconspicuous, 3 mm (0.12 in) long, located at the base of some catkins. The fruit is a spiny, golden-colored cupule 2–3 cm (3⁄4–1+1⁄4 in) in diameter, maturing in autumn, each containing one ovoid, shiny, dark brown nut that is edible and sweet-tasting.

This species is valued for its adaptability to various soil conditions and its drought tolerance, making it suitable for xeriscaping. It is often used in wildlife gardens, as the nuts are a food source for animals, and in restoration projects due to its ability to improve soil quality. In cultivation, it requires full sun to partial shade, low water once established, and well-drained soils with medium to fast drainage. While it is not commonly afflicted by serious diseases or pests, chestnut blight can be a concern, and it may require protection in areas where the disease is prevalent.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
  • Height: 15-24 feet
  • Width: 9-18 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, 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., Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

native to dry upland forests, slopes, and ridges in the Eastern, southern and central areas of the United States

Other Names

Common Names: American Chinkapin, Dwarf Chestnut, Pennsylvanische Kastanie

Scientific Names: , Castanea pumila, Castanea alnifolia, Castanea pumila var. pumila, Castanea pumila var. ashei, Castanea ashei, Castanea pumila var. margaretta, Castanea floridana, Castanea alnifolia var. floridana, Castanea margaretta

GBIF Accepted Name: Castanea pumila (L.) Mill.