Chinese Chestnut (Castanea mollissima)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Tree

Chinese Chestnut
Castanea mollissima

Chinese Chestnut form
Chinese Chestnut form
 
Features
Creamy white flowers in long, thin clusters, blooming in early summer; crisp, shiny green foliage; yellow to golden bronze fall color. 
 
Culture
Full sun; best in moist, well-drained soils; slightly acid soil pH. 
 
Cultivars
 
 
Mature Height
40-60 Feet
 
Size
Medium
Large
 
 
Mature Form
Rounded to broad-rounded 
 
Native To:
China and Korea 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
5 - 7 
 
Soil Conditions
Moist, Well-Drained
 
 
Tolerance
Wind
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Sun
 
 
Uses
Shade
Specimen
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
 
 
Fall Foliage Color
Brown
Yellow
 
 
Pests and Problems

Environmental Damage

Fungal Disease


Additional pests and problems that may affect this plant:

Weevils. Chestnut blight-the disease that decimated the American Chestnut (Chinese Chestnut is resistant to the disease, but not immune).
 
Additional Notes
The nuts can be a nuisance when they fall; the flowers have an unpleasant odor.

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic