Rock Chestnut Oak (Quercus prinus)

Family: Fagaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Quercus prinus is a deciduous Tree growing to 20 m (65ft 7in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower in May, 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 Wind. Suitable for: medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Late Summer, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweet according to some reports whilst another says that it contains bitter tannin. — Seed - raw or cooked.; Somewhat sweet according to some reports whilst another says that it contains bitter tannin.; The seed is quite large, up to 4cm long and 25mm wide.; It can be dried, ground into a powder and used as a thickening in stews etc or mixed with cereals for making bread.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry or rocky woods, mainly on siliceous soils and on the borders of streams. The best specimens are found on deep rich well-drained soils. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)