Sweet Chestnut

The Sweet Chestnut is a tree (Castanea sativa, family Fagaceae) native to southern Europe and Asia Minor. It is often a large tree attaining a height of 20-35 m with a trunk often 2 m in diameter. The oblong-lanceolate, boldly toothed leaves are 16-28 cm long and 5-9 cm broad.

Related Topics:
Tree - Fagaceae - Europe - Asia Minor - Leaves

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The flowers of both sexes are borne in 10-20 cm long, upright catkins, the male flowers in the upper part and female flowers in the lower part. They appear in late June to July, and by autumn, the female flowers develop into spiny cupules containing 3-7 brownish nuts that are shed during October.

Related Topics:
Flower - June - July - Cupule - Nuts - October

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The tree requires a mild climate and adequate moisture for good growth and a good nut harvest. It is sensitive to late spring and early autumn frosts, and is intolerant of lime. Under forest conditions it will tolerate moderate shade well.

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