Fruitful originated in the Northern Hemisphere, the chestnut belongs to the Fagaceae family. The Castanea genus has seven species of which stand out C. sativa Miller, C. crenata Siebold & Zucc., C. molissima Blume and C. dentata (Marsh.) Borkh. The species have received names according to their place of origin and are known respectively by chestnut (Portugal), Japanese chestnut (Japan and Korea), Chinese chestnut (China) and American chestnut (North America). Given the importance as one of the most important fruit species of antiquity, chestnuts maintain the tradition of Christmas celebrations in consumption and because of its nutritional qualities and being a versatile product it has been offered throughout the year, in some countries, as food for people and animals. In Säo Bento do Sapucaí, at the Fruit Tree Nursery Center, Extension Service, Säo Paulo Agricultural Station (CATI - SAA / SP - NPM-SBS),there is a collection with some cultivars and selection. In partnership with the Universidade Federal de Lavras (UFLA), the chestnut has been studied due to its great potential as a Brazilian fruit production.
Castanea crenata x Castanea sp.; flowering; production
