Ruby Red Horse Chestnut

Care: Pruning is best done in late winter, once the threat of extreme cold has passed, to shape the tree and remove lower branches if desired. Avoid sudden sun exposure to the trunk after removing lower branches to prevent bark crack.

Soil & Establishment: It grows well in most consistently moist, well-drained soils, including clay, loam, and sand types. Amendment with organic matter will improve performance. Consistent moisture during the first two growing seasons is essential for proper establishment.

Fertilizing: A light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring is sufficient.

Pests & Diseases: Generally resistant to pests and diseases, including leaf blotch, more so than other Aesculus varieties.

Fruit/Berry Production: Produces few, slightly prickly, inedible capsules (nuts). No pollinator cultivar is needed as it produces viable seeds. Keep nuts away from children and animals due to their toxicity.

Habitat: An artificial hybrid that doesn’t occur naturally in the wild.

Wildlife: Flowers attract bees and hummingbirds.

Plant Uses: Excellent as a specimen tree, shade tree for large lawns or parks, and can be used in urban landscapes due to high pollution tolerance.

Pet Safety: All parts of the plant, especially the nuts and leaves, are known to be toxic to dogs and cats.

Other: Formerly known as Aesculus rubicunda. It is difficult to transplant once established due to its large taproot.