Jenny's Garden...Plant pictures and gardening descriptions

Castanea dentata
(American Chestnut, American Sweet Chestnut)

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Image of a young Castanea dentata or
American Chestnut or American Sweet Chestnut tree

Castanea dentata
(American Chestnut, American Sweet Chestnut)

Origin:  Native to North America
Family:   Fagaceae
Light:  Full sun
Height:  20-40'
Spacing:  30-40'
Blooms:   Pale yellow in late Spring
Fruits:  Large geenish-yellow catkis matures to spiny casing with enclosed nut
Foliage:  Green
Soil:  Well-drained, loamy, acidic
Water:  Regular, does not like wet feet
Insects / Diseases: Watch for mites, aphids, scales, spray with horticultural oil just after plant finished blooming and then bi-weekly throught Summer
Uses:  Specimen, landscaping
Insects/Diseases:  Highly susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, Chestnut blight and anthracnose.  Watch for Japanese beetles
Propagation:  Seeds
Caution:   Thorny fruits, use gloves
Comments:  Castanea dentata or
American Chestnut or American Sweet Chestnut tree is a deciduous tree that produces nutritious and flavorful nuts.  The blooms are pollinated by wind and insects. Castanea dentata ia an excellent tree to have in the garden.  It not only enhances the beauty of the landscape but also provides fruits for the gardener. 
USDA Hardiness Zones :  4-8