Painted buckeye (Aesculus sylvatica)

Painted buckeye

Aesculus sylvatica is a species of shrub. The species has five leaflets that are 11 to 15 cm long and 4 to 6 cm wide. The flowers are yellow and occasionally have red also.

Scientific classification

Species

Painted buckeye (Aesculus sylvatica)

Maples, mangos, mahogany, citrus, and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

3 m to 6 m

Plant Height

1.8 m to 4.5 m

Spread

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Painted buckeye

Attributes of Painted buckeye

Growth Rate

With a moderate growth rate, painted buckeye exhibits steady development during its active growth season of spring and summer. Height increases are gradual but continuous throughout these periods, contributing to the plant's sturdy structure. Foliage expansion and flowering follow a balanced schedule, reflecting painted buckeye's moderate growth speed.

Quickly Identify Painted buckeye

Height ranges from 10-20 feet (3-6 meters), varying between shrub and tree forms.

Leaves initially red, later yellow-green with serrated margins and double serrations occasionally.

Flowers in panicles, 5-8 inches (13-20 cm) long, with yellow-green, cream, or pink hues.

Fruit has rounded form with a husk containing 1-3 robust seeds, 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm) in diameter.

Stout stem with large leaf scars, raised lenticels, and distinctive rough texture.

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Care Guide for Painted buckeye

Twice per week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Painted buckeye originates from eastern North American woodlands, preferring moist, well-drained soils. It requires regular watering—twice weekly during growth—and is moderately drought-tolerant once established. Mulching is beneficial for moisture retention, mimicking its native leaf litter environment.

Fertilize: Before transplanting painted buckeye, apply well-rotted organic fertilizer to enrich the soil. Fertilize young plants monthly (N:P:K=20:20:20) from spring to fall; switch to high phosphorus-potassium (N:P:K=9:45:15) in fall. Mature trees need fertilizing 2-3 times a year, adjusting for soil fertility.

Pruning: Painted buckeye requires early spring pruning before new growth. Remove dead or crowded branches for better airflow and light. Regular pruning supports health, blooming, and size management. Use clean, sharp tools to avoid disease and promote robust growth throughout the growing season.

Propagation: Painted buckeye, a member of the horse chestnut family, is propagated via cuttings. Use vigorous semi-hardwood segments during active growth for better rooting. A well-draining medium and consistent moisture, along with rooting hormones, can significantly improve success rates in cultivating new specimens.

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