Edible Plants of the World

Chinese chestnut

It is native to China. It requires a dry subtropical location. It occurs in North Vietnam from 500 to 2000 m altitude. It can grow on waste land, stony soil and acidic or limestone soils. In China it grows from near sea level to about 2800 m altitude. It suits hardiness zones 5-9.

Also known as:

Ban Li, Board chestnut, De tau, De trong, De trung khanh, Yebanli, Yemaoli

Synonyms

Edible Portion

Where does Chinese chestnut grow?

Found in: Asia, Australia, Canada, China, East Africa, Indochina, Korea, Laos, Myanmar, North America, Pacific, Philippines, SE Asia, Tanzania, United States, Vietnam

Notes: All Castanea bear edible nuts. There are about 12 Castanea species. This is a cultivated plant. It is resistant to chestnut blight.

Status: It is a cultivated food plant. The nuts are exported.

Growing Chinese chestnut

Cultivation: Two or more compatible varieties must be planted together to ensure cross pollination. Trees can be grown from seed. Seed need to be treated for 1-2 months with cold in a refrigerator then planted 5-7 cm deep. Plants can be grown by splice grafting.

Edible Uses: The seeds can be eaten. They are used both fresh and dried. They can be roasted or boiled. They are also used in cooking.

Production: Seedlings usually bear in 5-8 years. Grafted trees can bear in 2 years.

Nutrition Info

per 100g edible portion

Edible Part Energy (kcal) Protein (g) Iron (mg) Vitamin A (ug) Vitamin c (mg) Zinc (mg) % Water
Nuts 224 4.2 1.4 20 36 0.9 44

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