Castanea dentata
American Chestnut is listed as “Endangered” in Ontario under the Endangered Species Act as a result of a fungal disease called Chestnut Blight. This disease causes the tops of trees to die, but often roots will remain alive and the trees will resprout from the roots. Historically when populations were healthy and thriving, these trees grew up to 30 m high. Now, trees typically only reach heights of 10 m. The leaves are alternate, 9-30 cm long, oblong to lance-shaped, with coarsely toothed margins. The edible chestnuts are encased in a spikey, bur-like husk and are a valuable food source for small mammals and birds.
American Chestnut is adaptable to all soil types and prefers a dry to moist soil. They have moderate drought tolerance once established and do best when planted in full sun conditions. Continuing to plant this endangered tree will help to increase genetic diversity and could help the species to become more resistant to Chestnut Blight.
