Sweet chestnut

It occurs both naturally and in cultivations in Paggaio. It is present in the vegetation zone of deciduous oak forests, mixed mainly with Italian and Pubescent oaks, at altitudes from 300 to 800 m asl.

Deciduous tree, up to 30 m tall, with a broad shape. The leaves, arranged in two rows on either side of the twig, are large, elongated ovate to lanceolate, with serrated edges. Its flowers are entomophilous. From a distance, they are perceived as long, upright, oblong structures, located at the top of a twig. These are not the flowers but an axis on which numerous mainly male flowers are placed, and females, if any, are placed at the base of the axis. The flowering sweet chestnut is an impressive sight from May to the end of June. It is one of the most beloved trees for beekeepers. Its fruit definitely does not need recommendations. But, do not imagine that the known chestnut fruits hang alone from a branch. They are covered until maturity, which takes place in October, in a thorny shell that resembles a sea urchin. It is a semi shade-tolerant species, sensitive to frost. It grows well in deep, fertile and humus soils, as well as in acidic soils formed on silicate rocks (gneiss and slate), while avoiding limestone. Chestnuts are rich in carbohydrates. Its leaves and bark are a source of tannins. The fruits, bark and leaves were used to treat bleeding and diarrhea, due to their astringent action, but are also reported for their anti-inflammatory, expectorant and tonic properties. The leaves were also used to treat rheumatism, and to relieve back pain and stiff muscles and joints. Its wood is highly resistant to rot and is widely used in construction and outdoor structures. It is considered a native species of the eastern Mediterranean. Its widespread current distribution in central, western and northern Europe is human-related and has occurred, for the most part, in historical times.

The presence of infected, usually old, sweet chestnut individuals is intense, a result of ulcer and melanoma. These diseases are considered highly destructive, having killed a significant number of old trees, mainly in the northern part of the mountain, but also much of the old branches of many individuals throughout the area. Apart from the above, the species forms extensive clusters, in which no other major threat was observed.

Least Concern

Sweet chestnut is assigned to the “LC-Least Concern” category by IUCN, which does not necessarily mean that the species is safe or should not be protected. It rather means that the species “is not in immediate danger of extinction if the current conditions are maintained”. The importance of chestnut forests was recognized by the EU which has included them as a habitat of European interest and protects them in accordance with 92/43/EEC Directive.