Red Buckeye, Aesculus pavia
ID
HORT-22NP
Summary
Foliage: About 6 inches long; opposite; palmately compound; deciduous
Height: About 15 feet Spread: About 15 feet Shape: Round to oval round
Main Features
Red buckeye is typically a multi-trunk small tree (large shrub). Its claim to fame is the red flowers that cover the plant in April/May. Flower stalks (panicles) are about 8 inches long with 2 inch long red tubular flowers. Flowers are pollinated by ruby-throated hummingbirds. A mature tree in flower is a sight to behold. Fruit (“buckeyes”), about 2 inches in diameter, are round to oval and are poisonous; apparently the foliage is poisonous as well. Native to the eastern U.S., red buckeye is an understory species (grows in the shade of taller trees). However, this species can be grown in full sun as well.
Plant Needs
Zone: 4 to 8
Light: Full sun to full shade (plants will be more open in shady conditions)
Moisture: Average to moist
Soil type: Average
pH range: Acid to somewhat alkaline
Functions
Red buckeye can be used as a specimen plant (sufficient attributes to be featured as a focal point) due to its showy flowers and handsome foliage. However, leaves tend to drop from tree in the early fall and may look ratty in poor or droughty soils. This species is an excellent choice for an understory planting.
Care
Other than supplemental irrigation during drought periods, this species is relatively carefree.
Additional Information
Seeds (buckeyes) are attractive (lustrous brown) and poisonous; thus, this species should not be planted near children’s play areas.
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Publication Date
March 6, 2024
