Castanopsis orthacantha
Castanopsis orthacanthafam. Fagaceae
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Pl. CD4C — Castanopsis orthacantha
Castanopsis orthacanthaCastanopsis orthacanthaCastanopsis orthacanthaCastanopsis orthacanthaCastanopsis orthacanthaCastanopsis orthacanthaCastanopsis orthacanthaCastanopsis orthacanthaCastanopsis orthacanthaCastanopsis orthacanthaCastanopsis orthacanthaCastanopsis orthacanthaCastanopsis orthacanthaCastanopsis orthacantha
IOverview
Overview
Castanopsis orthacantha, known as a member of the Fagaceae family, is native to China's south-central region. This deciduous tree grows up to 20 meters in height and thrives in partial sun or shade with moist, medium to heavy clay soil. It is hardy in zones 7-10. The plant is notable for its edible seeds, which can be enjoyed as a food source. One distinctive feature of C. orthacantha is its ability to grow well in diverse environmental conditions, making it an adaptable and valuable addition to landscapes or orchards.
Quick answers
What is Castanopsis orthacantha?
Castanopsis orthacantha, known as a member of the Fagaceae family, is native to China's south-central region. This deciduous tree grows up to 20 meters in height and thrives in partial sun or shade with moist, medium to heavy clay soil. It is hardy in zones 7-10.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Castanopsis orthacantha thrives in partial sun to shade and prefers moist, medium to heavy clay soil. It is hardy in zones 7-10 and can grow up to 20 meters tall. For propagation, seeds are the recommended method. Ensure the plant gets adequate moisture and well-draining but not overly sandy soil for best growth.
Light
Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Mature size
20.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Castanopsis orthacantha for the first time
7steps
Start with planting Castanopsis orthacantha as a simple, low-maintenance tree for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Castanopsis orthacantha sapling and some basic gardening tools like a spade and watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or early fall when the weather is mild and stable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining but moisture-retentive, with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter if needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling into a prepared hole that's twice as wide but not deeper than its root ball.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist, especially during dry spells. Avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial shade and regular watering until established. Fertilize once a year in spring with a balanced organic fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune lightly during the dormant season to maintain shape and remove any dead or diseased branches.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: The seeds of Castanopsis orthacantha are edible and can be consumed raw or roasted. They are often prepared by drying to enhance their flavor and storage potential.
Other uses:Fragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 1 native
Asia1 region
native (1)China
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fagaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fagaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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