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giant chinquapin
Scientific Name: Chrysolepis chrysophylla
Family: Fagaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Tree, Shrub
Duration: Perennial
Other Names: WA (golden chinquapin)
Golden Chinquapin (Chrysolepis chrysophylla)
The golden chinquapin, also known as giant chinquapin, is a fascinating tree with unique characteristics and a rich history in the Pacific Coast region. This evergreen tree, a relative of chestnuts, is sure to add intrigue to any garden or landscape.
Considerations for Pets
- The plant produces a "f-valved spiny burr" containing nuts.
Considerations for Children
- The plant produces a "f-valved spiny burr" containing nuts.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Chrysolepis chrysophylla (Douglas ex Hook.) Hjelmqvist var. chrysophylla
- Common Names: Golden Chinquapin, Giant Chinquapin, Western Golden Chinquapin, Giant Evergreen Chinquapin, Chinkapin, Chinquapin, Golden-leafed Chinquapin, Golden-leafed Chestnut
- Family: Fagaceae (Beech family)
- Synonyms: Castanea chrysophylla, Castanopsis chrysophylla
Distribution and Habitat
- The golden chinquapin is restricted to the Pacific Coast region, occurring from central California to west-central Washington.
- It is particularly prevalent in Central and Northern California, especially in the High Sierra Nevada.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Chrysolepis chrysophylla can grow as a tree or a shrub.
- The leaves are entire, thick, and leathery, typically dark green and glabrous above, with a yellow-green to golden, densely scurfy-woolly underside.
Quirky Facts
- The Latin term "chrysolepis" translates to "golden scale," referring to the appearance of the plant.
- The burr-covered fruit contains two triangular nuts that are popular with chipmunks and squirrels.
- The golden chinquapin is related to chestnuts.