Although not classed as a Castanea spp, this tree is very closely related and has most of the same features as chestnuts, with the marked distinction that it is an evergreen. It is native to moun-tainous western North America and may grow to 40 m with a very large girth. It does best in well drained acid or neutral soils. The sweet nuts are hard shelled and about 10 mm long.
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