Aesculus x carnea (Red Horsechestnut)

Noted for its outstanding floral display, Aesculus x carnea (Red Horsechestnut) is a medium-sized deciduous tree of rounded to broad-rounded habit with a dense canopy of lustrous dark green leaves adorned with 5-7 leaflets. In late spring, erect cone-shaped panicles, 8 in. long (20 cm), of bright rose-red flowers cover the tree for a spectacular display.

Noted for its outstanding floral display, Aesculus x carnea (Red Horsechestnut) is a medium-sized deciduous tree of rounded to broad-rounded habit with a dense canopy of lustrous dark green leaves adorned with 5-7 leaflets. In late spring, erect cone-shaped panicles, 8 in. long (20 cm), of bright rose-red flowers cover the tree for a spectacular display. They are quite attractive to bees and hummingbirds. The flowers give way to slightly prickly capsules containing two or three nuts. Although deciduous, Red Horsechestnut does not produce any appreciable fall color. Aesculus x carnea is a hybrid between Aesculus pavia and A. hippocastanum and is regarded to be less susceptible to disease than either of its parents. A beautiful landscape tree for parks and large lawns. It may be planted as a shade tree.

  • Grows up to 30-40 ft. tall and wide (9-12 m).
  • Thrives in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun or part shade. Prefers moist, fertile soils.
  • Keep an eye out for canker, coral spot, leaf spot and horse chestnut scale.
  • Propagate by seed or grafting
  • Ingestion may cause severe discomfort.
  • Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.

Requirements

Hardiness 5
– 8

Heat Zones 6
– 8

Climate Zones 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17
Plant Type Trees
Plant Family Aesculus
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)
Height 30'
– 40'
(9m
– 12m)
Spread 30'
– 40'
(9m
– 12m)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy, Fruit & Berries
Attracts Bees, Hummingbirds
Garden Styles Prairie and Meadow