This vigorous species is displaying catkins of cream flowers on the southern edge of the Main Lawn.
A Mediterranean native Castanea sativa is a fast-growing, large tree which produces edible nuts (sweet chestnuts) in warm climates. It has long been grown in the British Isles, and is thought to have been introduced by the Romans. The genus contains twelve species from Europe, Asia, North America and North Africa, and all have alternate, glossy, toothed leaves, and scented, cream flowers. Reaching 30m in height, C. sativa makes an impressive specimen tree, particularly when in full bloom, when the flowers contrast against the glossy, acutely serrated foliage.