Different Varieties of Chestnut Trees Explained

Chestnuts are a delicious nut that are most popular during the winter season when they are harvested from trees during October and November. There are four main varieties of chestnuts that grow in North America and are harvested for their delicious nuts. These varieties are:

The American chestnut tree (castanea dentata). This chestnut tree grows one of the best tasting varieties of chestnuts. These are generally grown from seedlings and grow best in zones 3 through 9.

The Chinese chestnut tree (castanea mollissima). This tree produces a harvest of nuts in the late fall season. These are excellent for growing in zones 6 through 10 as it can survive the cold winter seasons in the northern part of the United States. A male and female tree must be planted together so the nuts can grow.

The European chestnut tree (castanea sativa). This chestnut is a native to Europe and prefers to grow in mild climates. This variety also requires a male and female planted together for the nuts to produce. Water the European chestnut tree for a good harvest of nuts.

The Japanese chestnut (castanea crenata). This tree is native to Japan and South Korea. The nuts grow during the late fall. Plant the tree in a partial shade or full sun.