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Description
Aesculus Parviflora, also known as the bottlebrush buckeye, is a deciduous shrub native to the southeastern United States. This plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and 12 feet wide, with a rounded shape and a dense canopy of dark green leaves. In the summer, Aesculus Parviflora produces showy spikes of white flowers that resemble bottlebrushes, hence its name. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. In the fall, the plant bears fruit in the form of woody capsules that contain shiny brown nuts.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Aesculus |
Appearance
Aesculus Parviflora has a dense, rounded canopy of dark green leaves that are palmately compound, meaning they have five to seven leaflets. The leaflets are ovate to elliptic in shape, with serrated edges and pointed tips. The leaves can grow up to 8 inches long and 5 inches wide. In the summer, the plant produces long spikes of white flowers that are arranged in a bottlebrush shape. The flowers can be up to 12 inches long and 6 inches wide. The fruit is a woody capsule that contains one to three shiny brown nuts.
Care Guide
To care for Aesculus Parviflora, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate periods of drought once established. It also requires full to partial sunlight, with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer, and water deeply once a week during dry periods. Aesculus Parviflora is hardy in zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aesculus Parviflora is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to leaf spot, powdery mildew, and canker. These issues can be prevented by providing the plant with good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. If necessary, treat the plant with a fungicide according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Habitat
Aesculus Parviflora is native to the southeastern United States, where it grows in moist woodlands and along stream banks. The plant prefers acidic soil and is often found in shaded areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Aesculus Parviflora be grown in containers?
A: Aesculus Parviflora can be grown in containers, but it may not reach its full size and potential.
Q: How often should I prune Aesculus Parviflora?
A: Prune Aesculus Parviflora in the late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Remove any dead or diseased branches, as well as any crossing or rubbing branches. Thin out the canopy as needed to improve air circulation.
Q: Can Aesculus Parviflora tolerate full shade?
A: Aesculus Parviflora prefers partial to full sunlight, but it can tolerate some shade. However, if grown in full shade, it may not produce as many flowers or nuts.
Q: Is Aesculus Parviflora deer-resistant?
A: Aesculus Parviflora is considered somewhat deer-resistant, but it may still be browsed by deer in times of food scarcity.
Related Plants
- Aesculus Hippocastanum (Horse Chestnut)
- Aesculus Glabra (Ohio Buckeye)
- Aesculus Pavia (Red Buckeye)
- Aesculus Californica (California Buckeye)
References
- “Aesculus Parviflora.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 18, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278193.
- “Aesculus Parviflora.” North Carolina State Extension. Accessed August 18, 2021. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/aesculus-parviflora/.
- “Bottlebrush Buckeye.” The Morton Arboretum. Accessed August 18, 2021. https://www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/bottlebrush-buckeye.
