Chinese Chestnut (Castanea mollissima)

The Chinese Chestnut (Castanea mollissima) is a notable species recognized for its delicious, sweet nuts and resistance to chestnut blight. However, these trees have not produced reliably on our home farm in Southwest Wisconsin due to their susceptibility to freezing during extreme cold snaps. While they may not be as aggressive in low-maintenance, certified organic conditions as their hybrid counterparts, there are a hardy variety worth considering for cultivation.

The surviving Chinese chestnuts producing seed in our breeding plots have demonstrated superior nut size and cold hardiness, making them the best candidates for successful growth in this challenging climate.

Plant Characteristics:

• Scientific Name: Castanea mollissima
• Size & Shape: Grows 30-50 feet tall with a broad crown; adaptable growth habit.
• Fruit Type: Sweet, edible nuts enclosed in spiny burrs, typically smaller than hybrids.
• Flowering: Flowers appear in early summer, with nut development following.
• Ecological Benefits: Contributes to soil health and enhances biodiversity within agroforestry systems; resistant to chestnut blight, offering a valuable alternative to American and hybrid chestnuts.
• Wildlife Benefits: Nuts serve as a nutritious food source for various wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and birds.

Growing Conditions:

• Sun Requirement: Prefers full sun.
• Water Requirement: Moderate water needs; appreciates well-drained soils.
• Hardiness Zone: Recommended for experimentation in Zone 4.
• Soil Preference: Thrives in rich, well-drained soils; suitable for low-input organic conditions.