The American Chestnut was once one of the most important trees in eastern North American forests, with an estimated 3–4 billion trees before a fungal blight introduced in the early 1900s virtually eliminated the species. Surviving root sprouts still persist but rarely survive long enough to produce nuts. Restoration efforts using blight-resistant hybrids are ongoing.
Best time to see a American Chestnut
The best time to see a American Chestnut is May–August, when about 65% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 17,286 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a American Chestnut? What plant is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent American Chestnut sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted an American Chestnut?
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