Red Horsechestnut (Aesculus xcarnea)

The Red Horsechestnut is a hybrid of the species ippocastanum and pavia that is known for its striking red flowers that grow upright. Its dark green leaves are compound and made of 5-7 leaflets arranged in palmate fashion. The tree produces shiny brown fruits that are encased in a spiny husk.

Family: Hamamelidaceae (Witch Hazel)

Characteristics: The leaves are comprised of 5-7 dark green leaflets which range from 6-8 inches long arranged in a palmate fashion. In spring, the tree produces 6-8 inches tall panicles of flowers that are 3-4 inches wide. The flowers are a pink to red color. The tree grows 30-40 feet tall and wide and has an oval to round shape canopy. The tree produces shiny brown fruits that are inedible and are encased in a spiny husk. The bark is a drak brown to grey color that becomes platy with age.

Foliage: Deciduous (leaves lost seasonally)

Geographic Origin: Europe (non-native)

Cultivation Notes: The tree is susceptible to fungal leaf scorch. It prefers moist, deep, well-drained soils, but is adaptable to a wide variety of soil conditions.

Number on Campus: 1

Sources: Dirr, Morton Arboretum, Missouri Botanical Garden