Contents
Description
Aesculus Carnea, commonly known as the Red Horse Chestnut or the Red-flowered Horse Chestnut, is a deciduous tree that is native to southeastern Europe and western Asia. It belongs to the family Sapindaceae and is a popular ornamental tree in many parts of the world. The tree can grow up to 40 feet tall and has a rounded or oval-shaped crown.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Aesculus |
Appearance
The leaves of Aesculus Carnea are palmate, meaning they have five to seven leaflets that are 4-6 inches long. The leaflets are dark green in color and turn yellow in the fall. The tree blooms in late spring to early summer, producing showy, red flowers that are 5-7 inches long. The flowers are arranged in upright panicles and are followed by spiny, green fruits that contain one to three large, shiny brown seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Aesculus Carnea requires moderate watering during the growing season, but it should be watered deeply and infrequently to promote deep root growth. Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Soil: The tree prefers well-drained, fertile soil that is slightly acidic. Sunlight: Aesculus Carnea prefers full sun to partial shade. Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 4-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aesculus Carnea is susceptible to leaf blotch, powdery mildew, and scale insects. It may also be affected by canker and leaf scorch. To prevent these problems, keep the tree healthy by providing proper care, and prune out any dead or diseased branches.
Habitat
Aesculus Carnea is native to southeastern Europe and western Asia, where it grows in forests and on rocky hillsides. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Aesculus Carnea be grown in containers?
A: It is possible to grow Aesculus Carnea in a container, but it may not reach its full growth potential. Q: When should Aesculus Carnea be pruned?
A: Prune the tree in late winter to early spring, before new growth begins. Q: Is Aesculus Carnea deer-resistant?
A: The tree is somewhat deer-resistant, but young trees may need to be protected from deer browsing. Q: How often should Aesculus Carnea be fertilized?
A: Fertilize the tree once a year in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Aesculus hippocastanum (Common Horse Chestnut)
- Aesculus glabra (Ohio Buckeye)
- Aesculus x carnea ‘Briotii’ (Pink Flowered Horse Chestnut)
References
- “Aesculus carnea.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a542
- “Aesculus carnea.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/11189/aesculus-carnea/details
- “Red Horse Chestnut.” The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/red-horse-chestnut-3269313
