Red buckeye (Aesculus pavia)

Red buckeye

Also known as: Woolly buckeye

Red buckeye (Aesculus pavia) is a flowering plant native to the midwestern and southern United States. Red buckeye is also called the firecracker plant. This plant attracts bees, and its seeds are poisonous. The red buckeye can be used to make soap.

Scientific classification

Species

Red buckeye (Aesculus pavia)

Maples, mangos, mahogany, citrus, and allies

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

Brown, Green, Copper

Fruit Color

Red, Yellow

Flower Color

Green, Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Red buckeye

Attributes of Red buckeye

Growth Rate

During the active growing seasons, Spring and Summer, red buckeye exhibits a moderate growth rate. This pace allows it to gradually develop its distinctive compound leaves and initiate flowering by late Spring. Despite the relative speed, adequate energy reserves are balanced between leaf production and flowering, ensuring a stable, robust growth. However, growth slows considerably outside these seasons. Red buckeye's moderate growth rate offers the horticultural advantage of allowing for more managed shaping and less intensive care.

Distribution of Red buckeye

Distribution Map

Red buckeye is found in the wild in only some states of the US states and doesn't grow anywhere else as an introduced species. It enjoys diverse habitats from rocky hills to woodlands and stream banks. It has attractive flowers and is grown ornamentally as a hedge or specimen tree in places with clay soils.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Deciduous woods, sides of streams and swamp margins

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Red buckeye (Aesculus pavia) is a tall shrub that is most commonly grown as a hedge or specimen tree in ornamental gardens. It is most valued for its pinnacles of showy red flowers that bloom in late spring and are particularly attractive to hummingbirds. Yellow honeysuckles or azaleas make good partners for this plant in meadow and prairie gardens.

Symbolism

Good fortune, the coming of spring

Interesting Facts

There are two variations of red buckeye : a yellow flowered variety and a red flowered variety. This large deciduous shrub contains saponins. Saponins are toxic to humans if ingested. Saponins are typically used to make soap, however, red buckeye does not produce enough saponin to make soap production commercially profitable.

Name Story

Red buckeye: This plant is widely planted for its beautiful flowers and these flowers are very attractive to birds and bees. The plant is named red buckeye for the color of the flowers and the similarity of the seed to a deer or buck's eye.

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Toxicity

Red buckeye is severely toxic to humans, dogs, and cats. All parts contain glycosides and saponins causing severe illness: coordination loss, spasms, gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and potential coma. Children and pets may ingest plant parts; vigilance is crucial. Immediate veterinary care is necessary for pets showing poisoning symptoms to mitigate risks.

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Quickly Identify Red buckeye

Oppositely arranged, palmately compound leaves with 5 leaflets (4-8 inches long).

Eye-catching inflorescences of tubular, red flowers forming erect clusters in early spring.

Smooth, light tan leathery fruit capsules (1-3 inches wide) containing shiny brown seeds.

Stout stem with olive-brown color, prominent raised lenticels for breathing pores.

Distinctive grey-brown trunk with splotchy markings, transitioning from smooth to scaly bark texture.

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Care Guide for Red buckeye

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from the southeastern United States, red buckeye flourishes in moist, well-drained soils. It shows moderate drought tolerance but prefers consistent moisture, ideally watered every 1-2 weeks. As an outdoor plant, it benefits from rain cycles and requires monitoring during prolonged dry periods for optimal growth.

Fertilize: Red buckeye requires balanced fertilizers (e.g., 10-10-10) annually in spring. High-nitrogen formulas can aid establishment. Apply 2-3 inches from the base to avoid root burn. Reduce frequency as red buckeye matures, and consider a lighter dose in early fall to support root development.

Pruning: Red buckeye is a small deciduous tree with striking red flowers. Early spring pruning is essential for shaping and removing dead wood, promoting healthy blooms. Avoid heavy pruning to prevent stress, while regular maintenance ensures robust growth and enhances its visual appeal.

Propagation: Red buckeye propagates easily via hardwood cuttings, layering, or seeds sown in Autumn or Winter. Signs of successful propagation include roots or new growth. Use healthy material and protect from extreme temperatures for best results.

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Images of Red buckeye

Attributes of Red buckeye

Distribution of Red buckeye

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Red buckeye

Care Guide for Red buckeye

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