Common Chestnut - Castanea sativa

The Common Chestnut Tree, in Latin Castanea sativa, is a large vigorous tree of European origin, bearing the famous edible chestnuts. Often reaching 20 to 30 metres (66 to 98 feet) in height at maturity, the chestnut tree is best suited for large gardens. It has a majestic, spreading and rounded habit. Its deciduous foliage, bright green, is dense and makes it a very good shade tree. In an acidic, deep and well-drained soil, it will have a very long lifespan.

Chestnut trees belong to the family of Fagaceae and are native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean region. The tree can reach up to 30 metres (98 feet) after many years, and in 15 years it can reach a small ten metres, it is reserved for large spaces. It provides beautiful shade in summer. The flowering corresponds to long male catkins and very discreet female flowers that bloom separately. It is a sought-after species because its wood is weather-resistant and can withstand time without treatment. The chestnuts have a shiny brown peel, promising a real feast. Chestnuts are a very special fruit, loved or hated, no one is indifferent to the woody flavor of this large seed that is a bit difficult to obtain. You will need gloves or a stick to remove them from their spiky bur once it has fallen to the ground. They ripen in September or October. Once the seeds are harvested, the bravest will embark on making the famous chestnut cream, but you can also roast them in a pan as they are for an instant pleasure. Blanched, candied or braised, the well-peeled almond accompanies savory dishes during the Christmas holidays. Do not confuse the Chestnut Tree with the Horse Chestnut, the chestnuts of the latter are not edible!

Castanea sativa requires space, it fears stagnant humidity more than other varieties, and it is also a little sensitive to cold. Hardy, it is actually the spring frosts that it fears the most. It will become a very beautiful, majestic and vigorous tree if the growing conditions are suitable. It will be cultivated in full sun in an acidic, deep and sandy soil. To enjoy good fruiting, this tree will need the proximity of another chestnut tree species. Castanea sativa 'Marron de Lyon' is another very interesting variety in terms of production that would be perfect for this purpose.