American Chestnut (Castanea dentata)
 
The American chestnut is a historic and iconic North American tree, once a dominant species in eastern forests. It typically grows 50–80 feet tall with a broad, rounded canopy and glossy, serrated leaves that turn yellow to golden-brown in autumn. Its textured, furrowed bark adds year-round character and visual interest.
 
In late summer, mature trees produce abundant, sweet, edible nuts, highly valued by both wildlife and people. Showy early-summer catkins add seasonal charm, while its fast growth and majestic presence make it a standout in natural landscapes and large gardens.
 
hough historically devastated by chestnut blight, ongoing restoration and breeding programs aim to reintroduce this species to forests. The American chestnut thrives in a variety of soils and climates, making it an enduring symbol of North American forests and a treasured choice for parks, home landscapes, and ecological restoration projects.