Gillet

‘Gillet’ (C. sativa × C. crenata) was grown from seed provided by Bob Bergantz. Like ‘Bergantz’, it is expected to be a seedling of the cultivar ‘Nevada’. ‘Gillet’ grows vigorously but has a compact orchard-type form. The cultivar produces large crops (despite ample catkin sets) and large, single-embryo nuts that peel easily and store well. It is grown on the west coast in production orchards. The nuts have a basic European chestnut flavor that sweetens with storage. Furthermore, the nuts drop mid-season, free from relatively compact burs. ‘Gillet’ is also grown in Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois, but replicated data regarding performance are needed.