Maraval Sweet Chestnut Tree
Maraval is a good choice for buyers who want a productive sweet chestnut with moderate growth. It is an upright tree producing large to very large, shiny mahogany-red nuts, normally ready in early October and relatively quick to begin fruiting. [1] [2] [4] The nuts store well, peel well after boiling and are suitable for eating or cooking. [1] [2] Its glossy green leaves turn golden in autumn, making Maraval an attractive garden tree as well as a useful fruit tree. [1]
Pollination: Maraval can produce some nuts when planted on its own, but crops are improved by having a compatible sweet chestnut nearby. For cross-pollination, plant a different variety rather than a second Maraval. Belle Epine is a suitable partner and is specifically listed as a pollinator for Maraval. [2] [5] [9]
Maraval can also help pollinate other sweet chestnuts and is rated as a good pollinator. It is a recognised pollination partner for Marigoule and Précoce Migoule. [3] [4] [8]
Planting Maraval Sweet Chestnut Tree
Plant Maraval in a warm, sunny position with well-drained, acid-to-neutral soil. It prefers lighter soils and should not be planted in chalky or waterlogged ground. Warmth is particularly important for good nut production, so give Maraval one of the sunniest and most sheltered positions available and allow plenty of room for the tree to develop. [1] [2] [4]
Maraval starts into growth early in spring and can be damaged by late spring frost, so avoid low-lying frost pockets. Dig a wide planting hole and keep the first structural roots at about soil level. Backfill carefully, firm the soil gently and water well. Keep grass and weeds away from the base, mulch without covering the trunk and water during dry weather while the tree establishes. [2] [6] [7]
Other Interesting Information about Maraval Tree
Maraval, also known as CA 74, is a natural hybrid between European sweet chestnut, Castanea sativa, and Japanese chestnut, Castanea crenata. It originated in the Ardèche region of France. [2]
Fewer than about 12% of the kernels are divided internally, so most contain a single whole kernel. [2]
Maraval also has useful resistance to ink disease and leaf rust. [2] [4]
