Horsechestnut

Aesculus hippocastanum

Horsechestnuts are similar to the Ohio Buckeye, but larger at 60’ x 45′ and more conical in shape. They grow slow and prefer medium soil moisture. The bark exfoliates or peels for an attractive aesthetic look. Does quite well in alkaline (high pH) soils and in cooler sites. They display beautiful white flower clusters in the late spring and bare an inedible spiky fruit.

Common Problems

Environmental

The weak-wooded branches snap easily from snow load and high wind. Careful canopy pruning can help alleviate some of this issue.

Diseases

Susceptible to several fungi and pests in most climates. Seems to be free of pests and diseases along the Front Range.

Pests

Susceptible to several fungi and pests in most climates. Seems to be free of pests and diseases along the Front Range.

Cultivars

Several cultivars are available including fruitless varieties.

History and Use

Traditionally, the fruit was used for dying linens blue and also for making acetone. The nut is poisonous, but unlikely fatal if ingested although deer have an enzyme allowing it to be eaten without harm.

This was the tree that Anne Frank saw from her family’s attic hideaway during WWII in Amsterdam. The 150 year old tree is still there despite its many afflictions and attempts by the city to condemn it (1/30/2009).