Castanopsis chestnut, White oak

Castanopsis acuminatissima

Physical Characteristics

Castanopsis acuminatissima is an evergreen Tree growing to 25 m (82ft) by 25 m (82ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The flowers are pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, New Guinea.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Edible Uses: Seed - raw or cooked[317 , 658 ]. They are more commonly cooked, it is mainly children who collect them and eat them raw[658 ]. The seeds can be boiled or roasted - when cooked they taste somewhat like rice[658 ]. The seed is up to 15mm x 10mm, contained in a spiny seedcase[451 ].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

Mouth ulcers and anaemia have been reported from people eating large numbers of raw nuts[658 ].