Chestnut Blight (IMAGE) Virginia Tech Caption Since the introduction of chestnut blight to North America in the early 1900s, American chestnuts very rarely reach maturity, appearing more shrub-like. Photo by Rachel Collins, Roanoke College. Credit Roanoke College Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.