Chinknut (Castanea x neglecta)

Family: Fagaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Castanea x neglecta is a deciduous Shrub growing to 4 m (13ft) by 4 m (13ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower in July, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Insects.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Late Summer, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweeter and has a floury texture. — Seed - raw or cooked.; Eaten raw, there is a distinct astringency, especially if the fleshy inner skin beneath the outer shell of the seed is not removed.; When cooked, however, and especially when baked, the seed becomes much sweeter and has a floury texture.; It then makes an excellent food and can be used as a staple food in much the same way as potatoes or cereals.

Habitat & North American Range

A natural hybrid, C. dentata x C. pumila, found on well-drained soils. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)