C. dentata

Distribution map

Castanea dentata(Marshall) Borkhausen - American chestnut

Trees

• often massive, formerly to 30 m, now persisting mostly as multistemmed resprouts to 5-10 m because of widespread destruction by blight.

Bark

• gray, smooth when young, furrowed in age.

Twigs

• smooth

Leaves:

• Egg-shaped and flat, with the narrow end attached to the stalk
• base narrowly triangular
• sharply serrated edges
• gradually tapers to a sharp point

Staminate flowers

• conspicuous pistills
• white or yellow hairs in middle

Fruits

• cup shaped
• 4-valves
• flattened on either side

Flowering Season

• June - July

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In the early 20th century the American chestnut (C. dentata) was struck by what is known as "The Chestnut Blight." This blight was caused by the fungus called Cryphonectria parasitica. The American chestnut did manage to survive this blight, but most exist today as resprouts. These resprouts can produce seeds but those seeds are rarely viable. Before this blight struck the American chestnut was perhaps the most prevalent tree in eastern forests. The wood was used for construction because it was lightweight, sturdy and resisted decay. The wood was also used for furniture making, and decorative woodworking. The Native Americans were known to use some parts of the plants to treat whooping cough.

Nate Childers - 1998