American Chestnut (Castanea dentata)

Hardiness Zones: 4-8

Common Names: American Chestnut

Mature Size: In the absence of blight, this tree can grow 50-75 feet (15-23 meters) tall, sometimes exceeding 100 feet (30 meters). It has a rounded crown that spreads widely with massive branches (Missouri Botanical Garden).

Soil and Climate Requirements: American Chestnuts prefer moderately acidic, sandy loam soil and thrive in sunny, well-drained locations. Morning sun exposure is preferable to afternoon sun, which can lead to bark cracking in winter due to rapid temperature changes. Plantings below 2,500 feet altitude currently have better chances of survival. To minimize frost damage, plant in elevated areas on sloping terrain, avoiding low-lying frost pockets, wet spots, and soils high in limestone or heavy clay.

Notes: Castanea dentata is the true native American Chestnut and lacks resistance to blight. Its leaves are oblong, measuring 6-10 inches (15-25 cm) in length, with toothed edges. In autumn, the leaves turn various shades of yellow. Male flowers are yellowish-white and grow in clusters on catkins measuring 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) long. Female flowers are smaller and less showy. Both male and female flowers bloom in early summer (around June). The fruit is a large nut covered in spiky burrs, approximately 2-3 inches (5-8 cm) wide. Each husk contains 2-3 brown nuts, each ½-1 inch (1-3 cm) wide, maturing in the fall and known for their edible sweetness (Missouri Botanical Garden). When young, the bark is smooth and chestnut brown, developing furrows as the tree matures. Bark of blight-infested trees typically splits open with orange fungus growth (Virginia Tech). American Chestnut trees are best suited for parks or forested areas and historically were prized for their decay-resistant wood rich in tannins, used extensively in furniture making. The species is now nearly extinct in the wild due to chestnut blight.

Wildlife Value: American Chestnut was crucial for wildlife, providing essential autumn mast for species such as White-tailed Deer, Wild Turkey, and formerly, the Passenger Pigeon. Black Bears also relied on the nuts to fatten up for winter.

Potential Issues: Major challenges include chestnut blight, along with susceptibility to powdery mildew, leaf spots, and anthracnose (Missouri Botanical Garden).

For more information, visit:

• Virginia Tech Dendrology: [link]
• Missouri Botanical Garden: [link]

Additional information on Castanea dentata can be found on the link: USDA / NRCS PLANTS Database.