Plant Details

Castanea mollissima

Chinese Chestnut

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Explore the size, hardiness, soil, light, edible uses and harvest period of Castanea mollissima.

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General Information

Scientific name: Castanea mollissima
Also known as: Chinese Chestnut

Plant Properties

Layer: Nut tree
Size: Large
Height: 25.00 m
Width: 15.00 m
Growth Rate: Moderate
Leaf: Deciduous

Growth conditions

USDA Hardiness: 4-8
Soil Moisture:
Well-drained, Moist
Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
pH:
Acidic Neutral
Light:
Full sun, Partial shade

Usage properties

Edible part:
Seed
Edibility:
(3)
Medicinal:
(2)
Features:
Wood

Description

Seeds can be eaten both raw and cooked. When eaten raw, there is often a noticeable contraction, especially if the fleshy inner skin is not removed. By cooking them, and especially by roasting them, the seeds become much sweeter and acquire a floral texture. At this point, they are an excellent source of nutrition and can serve as a main ingredient in a meal, similar to potatoes or grains. The outer shell of the seeds is easy to remove. Seeds contain little fat and oil but are rich in carbohydrates.

Harvest Data

Start Harvest: 01/10
End of Harvest: 15/11

Crown Data

Crown Type: Broad ovoid
Crown Density: Dense crown