A chestnut is a type of nut that comes from trees in the genus Castanea. These nuts are typically round and have a shiny brown shell. They are edible and are often roasted or used in various dishes, especially in autumn. Chestnuts are different from other nuts because they contain a high amount of starch and less fat. The chestnut tree can grow quite large and is known for its beautiful foliage. It produces flowers in the spring, which develop into the spiky husks that contain the nuts. Chestnuts are also significant in some cultures, often associated with harvest festivals and traditional recipes.