Hydrolyzes chitin and may play a role in defense against fungal pathogens containing chitin. Random endo-hydrolysis of N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminide (1->4)-beta-linkages in chitin and chitodextrins. Expressed in pistils, stamens and lodicules. Belongs to the glycosyl hydrolase 19 family. Chitinase class I subfamily. Enzyme activity is uncertain. Was shown to have endochitinase activity (in vitro) (PubMed:10890535). Lacks the conserved Glu residue that is essential for catalytic activity, suggesting it lacks enzyme activity.