One of the greatest ecological disasters the US has ever seen. Chestnut blight wiped out the American chestnut tree in less than 50 years.⁠ A tree that once made up nearly 25% of the eastern forests was reduced to a functionally extinct species.⁠ ⁠ The Asian fungus Cryphonectria parasitica was accidentally introduced into the United States in the late 1800s. While a few diseased chestnuts were noted in the 1880s and 90s, it wasn't until 1904 that the pathogen was identified in New York City. Fro

Once an icon, the functionally extinct American chestnut tree could be restored

Chestnut blight changed everything. Watch how this deadly fungus transformed a once-mighty tree. | The American Chestnut Foundation

This magnificent American Chestnut is a delight to observe. I'm disturbed by the presence of blight on the bark. #treesofinstagram #trees #nuts #disease #leaves #rare | Cherie Ann Rowe

Follow us to learn more about the blight and what to do if this happens to a tree near you! | The American Chestnut Foundation