Although it is indigenous to eastern
North America, the American chestnut is an increasingly rate sight in the
deciduous forests of southern Ontario. Once a mighty tree of great commercial
importance at the turn of the 20th century, the species was ravaged by a
foreign fungus disease called Chestnut blight that killed all but a small
percentage of trees in Canada and the United States within three decades.
Distinguished by its sturdy timber and sweet, glossy brown nuts, the tree
has survived to modern day through its roots suckers which sometimes bear
seed before they die. Through research at the University of Guelph in Ontario,
efforts are being made to save this majestic tree.
Although many varieties of chestnut are edible, it is important to note
that some, such as the horse chestnut, are not.
Environment Canada
Government of Canada
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
The Canadian Encyclopedia
