Sweet Chestnut Species Details   (Back to Species List)

Detailed information pertaining to Sweet Chestnut (Castanea, sativa) is detailed below:

Specie Names

Lumber Name(s): Chestnut, Sweet Chestnut, European Chestnut.

Grown in: Asia Minor.

Description

With the same look as American Chestnut, which is now commercially extinct due to the chestnut blight, European Chestnut is the ideal choice to replicate this classic American wood.

Color Range and Color Change

Color Range: Chestnut ranges from a cream/tan color with ash-like graining and darker knots.

Color Change: Chestnut ambers over time to a medium tan/brown color.

Where to Use

Chestnut is only recommended for residential use due to its softness.

Special Characteristics and Issues

Chestnut has a high resistance to decay. The wood remains smooth under friction and is reported to have no odor. Chestnut is diffuclt and time consuming to dry properly.

Site Sanding/ Finishing: Chestnut is sometimes difficult to saw properly. Pre-boring is suggested yet the wood holds nails well once applied. Glue holds well with chestnut flooring. This species sands fairly well but does mar easily under heavy traffic.

Allergic Reactions: Chestnut has been known to cause respiratory allergic reactions so care must be taken when coming into contact with European Chestnut dust.

Product availability

This species is currently not available in any collections.

Hardness Chart

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