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Chestnut tree Facts

Chestnut tree Facts
Chestnut is deciduous tree that is closely related to oaks and beeches. They all belong to the family Fagaceae. There are 9 different species of chestnut that can be found in temperate regions in the northern hemisphere. Cultivation of chestnut trees started 2000 years BC. This plant was integral part of human diet in the past. It was used as a substitute for potato in areas where potato couldn't be grown. All species except American chestnut are numerous in the wild. At the beginning of the 20th century, American chestnut was nearly wiped out from the North America as a result of fungal disease (chestnut blight). Around 4 billion chestnuts were destroyed during a period of 40 years. Despite conservation efforts, only several American chestnuts can be found in the wild today.
Interesting Chestnut tree Facts:
Size of chestnut depends on the species. They can grow in the form of bush or tree. Tallest species, American chestnut, can reach 100 feet in height.
Chestnut tree has reddish-brown or grey bark that is smooth in young trees but becomes rough and furrowed in old trees. Bark on certain trees looks like a net made of strong ropes.
Chestnut tree has ovate or lanceolate leaves characterized by widely separated teeth. Upper side of leaves is darker compared to the bottom side.
Flowers appear during the spring and summer. They are arranged in long catkins. Each tree develops both male and female flowers (monoecious plant).
Flowers cannot be self-pollinated. Since they are fragrant, flowers easily attract insects which transfer pollen from one tree to another and perform pollination successfully.
Fruit of chestnut tree belongs to the group of nuts. It is protected with hard, brown husk which is covered with spines.
Chestnut trees produce more fruit when they are subjected to lower temperatures during the winter. Unlike old trees, young trees are highly sensitive to frost.
Chestnuts are important food source for animals such as squirrels, wild boars, birds and deer.
Chestnut and wheat contain same amount of carbohydrates. Level of starch is two times higher in chestnut than in potato. Chestnut is also rich source of vitamin C, vitamins of the B group and minerals such as potassium, iron and magnesium.
Chestnut can be consumed raw, or as part of various salty and sweet dishes. Dried chestnut can be grind and used as flour.
Wood of chestnut tree has similar properties like oak. It is often used in the manufacture of houses and furniture.
Chestnut contains high amount of tannins and it is used for tanning of leather.
Leaves and the husk are used in cosmetic industry for the production of shampoos.
Extract of chestnuts is used for starching of textile.
Lifespan of chestnut tree depends on the species. It can survive from 200 to 800 years in the wild.


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