Henry’s Chestnut (Castanea henryi)
 
Henry’s chestnut is a lesser-known but valuable species of chestnut native to central and southern China. A medium to large deciduous tree, it typically grows 50 to 80 feet tall with a straight trunk and an elegant, spreading crown. Its leaves are long, lance-shaped, and finely serrated, turning warm yellow or bronze in the fall. In early to midsummer, the tree produces long, pale yellow catkins, followed by spiny burs that ripen in autumn to reveal edible nuts. The nuts of Castanea henryi are smaller than those of some cultivated varieties but are sweet and nutritious, making them important for regional food and wildlife. The species is also valued for its wood and plays a role in breeding programs for disease resistance and climate adaptability. Resilient and hardy, Henry’s chestnut is a promising tree for both conservation and cultivation, offering genetic diversity and ecological importance in chestnut restoration efforts.