Castanea pumila (chinquapin, allegheny chinquapin)

Climate

Prefers a moderate climate and can thrive at various altitudes.

Common Name

Chinquapin

Description

Castanea pumila, commonly known as chinquapin or allegheny chinquapin, is a small shrub native to North America. It belongs to the genus Chestnuts and produces sweet nuts that can be enjoyed raw or roasted. These nuts are smaller in size compared to those of Castanea dentata.

Genus
Chestnuts
Grouping
Nuts
Latin Name

Castanea pumila

Origin

United States

Other Relevant Information

Other Relevant Information: - The chinquapin is known for its resistance to chestnut blight, a fungal disease that has devastated American chestnut trees. - It is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can reach heights of up to 20 feet. - The leaves of the chinquapin are dark green and have a toothed margin. - It produces yellow, catkin-like flowers in the spring. - The nuts of the chinquapin are enclosed in a spiky bur and are a valuable food source for wildlife. - The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. - It is found in the eastern United States, particularly in the Appalachian Mountains.

Soil Preferences

Well-drained, acidic soil with a pH range of 4.5 to 6.5.

Specific species
Uses
Suitability to cool temperate climate

A native of North America, which rarely exceeds a small shrub in cultivation. The nuts are smaller than for C. dentata and are very sweet, being eaten either raw or roasted.