Sheffield's Seed Company Page

Castanea sativa x crenata Bouche de Betizac, a remarkable European Chestnut cultivar ideal for both commercial growers and enthusiasts alike. Originating from a French hybrid between the European chestnut (Castanea sativa) and Japanese chestnut (Castanea crenata), this robust tree is designed to impress with its vigorous, upright growth and substantial yields. Known for producing abundant crops of large, flavorful nuts—25 to 30 per pound—these chestnuts are not only delicious but also easy to peel, making them a favorite among consumers. Bouche de Betizac chestnut begins bearing fruit as early as three years after planting, reaching full production capacity around 5-7 years. This mid-late ripener is well-suited for cooler summer climates, showing resilience against Asian gall wasp and leaf anthracnose, and demonstrating potential resistance to chestnut blight. While pollen-sterile, it thrives when paired with reliable pollinators like Precoce Migoule or Marigoule. However, its early budding nature does make it sensitive to spring frosts.