Description
Our Malabar Chestnut trees are huge 1-1.5m tall
The Malabar Chestnut tree (Pachira aquatica) is an evergreen tree that thrives in sub-tropical conditions. It can grow to heights of 18m but generally around 7m with a spread of 3m. It has a big buttress and short stubby roots which hold great amounts of water, thus a drought resistant tree. They are among the best nuts in terms of flavour and taste.
It is also a great tree to bonsai.
Malabar chestnuts grow in a football-shaped pod. The pods have rough skin with an average diameter between 5 and 7cms and a length of between 10 and 30cms. They transform from green to dark brown when ripe. The pods contain several light brown seeds with faint white stripes.
Raw seeds taste similar to peanuts. When cooked, they become crunchy with a macadamia-like flavour that is sweet and nutty.
Position
These trees can be grown outdoors in tropical regions or as houseplants in containers in cooler climates. They should be protected from frost and cold temperatures.
The Malabar chestnut tree requires bright light but not direct sunlight. It will tolerate partial shade with temperatures of between 12 and 25°C. This tree thrives both in potting soil and in a hydroponic system.
Size
Chestnut trees can grow to a height of 7 m with a spread of 3 m. They are popularly grown as bonsai trees.
Soil
Chestnut trees grow well in typical potting soil, requiring sandy, loamy soil with good drainage. They thrive in acidic soil with a pH of between 4.5 and 6.5. Add one bag of acid compost to benefit your soil pH.
Mulch
Mulching is essential to preserve moisture in the soil. Mulching also prevents competitive weeds—mulch with crushed, dry leaves or acid compost.
Harvesting
Chestnuts are one of the most accessible nuts to harvest. Wait for the chestnuts to fall to the ground. Gather the nuts with open burrs and remove the nuts from the burrs. Store the chestnuts in airtight containers and enjoy.
