Believed to have been introduced by the Romans, this tree is native of Southern Europe and North Africa but has long been naturalised in the UK.

It won the Award of Garden Merit in 2002.

Its spiralling rough bark at maturity is lovely.

A versatile and beautiful, fast growing, large tree, which is particularly attractive in early summer when laden with its male and female catkins.

Its long, glossy leaves turn gold and bronze before falling in the autumn.

The timber is highly prized around the Mediterranean and in Provence much furniture is made from chestnut wood.

A splendid tree for grouping and quite outstanding planted as an avenue.

It does best on reasonably dry, light soils, and is moderately lime tolerant.

Mature height: 20m+