Solved Variegated small tree thriving in London

This is in Cavendish Square today. I want one! But what is it?

 

Possibly Castanea sativa variegata? Variegated sweet chestnut.

 

Could be, though it was only about 4m tall and the position wouldn’t be right for a huge tree like that. But yes, it could be.

 

Agree...definitely Castanea sativa variegata.. common name Variegated sweet chestnut.
At the moment it is full of flowers...those long catkins.
Because it is variegated it will not grow as quickly as the plain green leaf one.

 

Does it normally grow as openly as that? Or do you think they've pruned it?

Is it the same as Castanea sativa 'Albomarginata'?

 

It could be.
Not sure of the technical difference between Castanea sativa variegata and Castanea sativa 'Albomarginata'

The variegated ones tend to be a good shape with no need for pruning.

 

Castanea sativa 'Albomarginata'
Castanea sativa 'Variegata'

Just looking at the descriptions of both on the same nursery site, the main thing I notice is the eventual size stated, I assume they are not the same plant otherwise a nursery wouldn't stock it separately.