American Chestnut

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The American chestnut (Castanea dentata) is a large deciduous tree from the beech family and is native to eastern North America

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The American chestnut (Castanea dentata) is a large deciduous tree from the beech family and is native to eastern North America. Before chestnut blight, a fungal disease, devastated the species, it was one of the most important forest trees in its range and was considered the best chestnut tree in the world. Between 3 and 4 billion American chestnut trees were lost to blight in the first half of the 20th century after the disease was first found in 1904. Today, only a few mature trees remain in their original range, though many small shoots still grow from old roots. There are also hundreds of large American chestnuts outside their historical range, especially in places like northern Lower Michigan, where less harmful strains of the fungus are more common. The species is now listed as endangered in both Canada and the United States.

Many consider the American Chestnut the most honorable of the American wand woods. It is known for being stubborn and wise, matching itself to its owner and helping them stay true to their path by refusing to create magic that goes against their destiny. This wood rarely changes owners and usually keeps its original loyalty, even with a new master. It is also especially good for enchantment spells.

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