Aesculus pavia, Red Buckeye

Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic 

Native mostly to the southeastern United States,* this understory tree is found
in woods and along streams. Its common name refers to shiny seeds called
buckeyes, which are encased in husked seed capsules. Its showy flowers,
suggestive of firecrackers, have led to its alternative name, Firecracker Plant.

Print Version: Aesculus pavia, Red Buckeye

Aesculus pavia, Red Buckeye   USDA Zones 4-8, Use as a specimen or hedge, or in a rain garden,  Growing and maintenance tips:  Sun, Partial Shade, Acidic, well-drained soil,  Attributes: Tolerates clay soil; intolerant of drought; no serious pests but leaf blotch can be a major problem (remove fallen leaves promptly and place in the trash); deer rarely damage,  Ethnobotanic uses; plant may be harmful if eaten,  Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies; bark, foliage and seeds are toxic to mammalian herbivores,  Bloom color: Bright red,  Height & Spread: 12-15 feet Excellent replacement for: Vitex agnus-castus - Chaste Tree, Paulownia tomentosa - Princess Tree, Albizia julibrissin - Mimosa

Learn more about other Mid-Atlantic plants: Tried and True Plant Fact Sheets.