Castanea sativa is a species of the flowering plant family Fagaceae, the tree and its edible seeds are referred to by several common names such as Sweet Chestnut or Marron. Originally native to southeastern Europe and Asia Minor, it is now widely dispersed throughout Europe and parts of Asia, such as the lower Himalayas and other temperate parts of the Indian Subcontinent. The trees are hardy, long lived and well known for their chestnuts, which are used as an ingredient in cooking.