Dwarf Chestnut (Castanea pumila)

Dwarf Chestnut

Also known as: Common Chinquapin, Ozark Chinquapin, Allegheny Chinquapin, Ozark Chinkpin, Common Chinkapin

Dwarf Chestnut (Castanea pumila) is an evergreen tree that grows to around 9 m tall with fragrant yellow flowers that bloom from spring to summer. Its nuts can be eaten by people and are sought after by wildlife. Grows in full sun and prefers hot summers. Susceptible to chestnut blight. Provides habitat for woodland animals.

Scientific classification

Species

Dwarf Chestnut (Castanea pumila)

Beeches, walnuts, and allied trees

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer

Bloom Time

1.8 m to 4.5 m

Plant Height

1.8 m to 6 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

Yellow, White, Green

Flower Color

Red, Brown, Burgundy

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

Images of Dwarf Chestnut

Attributes of Dwarf Chestnut

Growth Rate

Manifesting a moderate growth rate, dwarf Chestnut intensifies its expansion during Spring and Summer. This measured speed supports balanced development, with foliage unfurling harmoniously alongside the height increase. Noticeable growth leaps might accompany season transitions, catered to the plant's adaptive acumen. Fascinatingly, such growth rhythm perfectly supports dwarf Chestnut's resource allocation, engendering a remarkable chestnut production track.

Quickly Identify Dwarf Chestnut

Distinct male and female flowers on the same plant, with male flowers emitting a strong odor.

Spiny outer bur enclosing glossy, chestnut-brown nuts; a visually captivating fruit for identification.

Alternate, oblong leaves with bright yellow-green upper surface and silvery, tomentose lower surface.

Initially hairy stem transforming into smooth, shiny brown surface; slender young twigs with reddish-hairy buds.

Light brown trunk with reddish-tinged bark breaking into loose, plate-like scales, aiding in mature plant identification.

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Care Guide for Dwarf Chestnut

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Dwarf Chestnut prefers moderate moisture resembling its native woodland, requiring watering every two weeks for optimal health. It shows drought tolerance but needs consistent hydration. Best suited for outdoor growth, dwarf Chestnut's watering can be reduced during dormancy in colder months.

Fertilize: Dwarf Chestnut requires balanced nutrition fertilizers in spring for strong growth. Switch to high nitrogen fertilizers for leaf development, applying carefully to prevent harm. Seasonal adjustments enhance growth, fruiting, and resilience, while incorporating fertilizer into the soil aids effective nutrient uptake.

Pruning: Dwarf Chestnut is a deciduous shrub featuring small nut-producing burrs. Prune in early spring to remove dead branches, thin crowded areas, and shape the plant, promoting healthy growth and fruit production. Avoid heavy pruning to prevent stress and ensure good air circulation to minimize disease risk.

Propagation: Dwarf Chestnut, an understory tree in eastern North America, thrives with careful cultivation. Optimal germination requires cold stratification of seeds. It prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil and consistent moisture. Protecting seeds from wildlife enhances reproduction success.

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Images of Dwarf Chestnut

Attributes of Dwarf Chestnut

Quickly Identify Dwarf Chestnut

Care Guide for Dwarf Chestnut

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