:: Flora of Northern Ireland ::

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Castanea sativa Fagaceae Sweet Chestnut
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Castanea sativa
© Alan Hill		 Castanea sativa
© Alan Hill		 Castanea sativa
© Alan Hill		 Castanea sativa
Map updated: March 2008
Species Description:
This is the tree which yields the edible chestnut, as opposed to the unrelated horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum). It is not a native but has been grown in Ireland for many centuries. The tree is also sometimes called the Spanish chestnut, a reference to the fact that Spain is one of the older sources of imported 'nuts' (seeds).

Probably all the trees in Northern Ireland are planted individuals; most are found in demesne woodland. There is no evidence of this species producing self-sown trees in the region.

All names: Castanea sativa Miller; Castanea castanea (L.) Karst.

© National Museums Northern Ireland, 2000-2009

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