(Aesculus pavia )
The Horsechestnut Family (Hippocastanaceae)
Deciduous shrub or short tree with opposite, palmately compound leaves and gray-brown, smooth, “splotchy” bark.
Habitat:
Common in woods, along streams, in thickets, and on rocky hills.
Interesting Facts:
The Red Buckeye’s large seed, which is said to resemble a deer’s eye, is considered a good luck charm. Native Americans pulverized seeds and broadcast the powder to stun fish for fishing purposes. Toxic chemicals found in the roots and seeds can be used as a soap substitute.
Fruit:
Three-part smooth husk containing 1 to 3 large shiny brown seeds, maturing in the fall.
Flower:
Upright cluster of dark-red tubular flowers, cluster 6 to 10” long, appearing in spring.
Wildlife value:
Although the nectar is a favorite food for hummingbirds, the high content of toxins in the rest of the plant makes it a poor food source for birds and mammals.
Flowers
Fruit
Bud
Leaf type:
Compound
Pollinator:
Wildlife value:
Tree dimensions:
Leaf length: 6.00-10.00 inches
Tree height: 10.00-40.00 feet
PDF link:
Where to find Red Buckeye on the Louisiana State Arboretum Trails:
WET - Wetland Trail 15.0
Refer to our Live Map to locate this species and its interpretative signage on the trail system.