Trees

Aesculus pavia

Red buckeye

Red buckeye. Form in bloom.

A small native tree with upright red flower clusters in spring and bold, hand-shaped leaves. It brings early color to woodland edges and mixed borders, with nectar for hummingbirds. Leaves may drop early, so surround it with plants that carry the display into late summer.

At a glance

Sun: Part shade
Size: Height: 15 ft.–25 ft. · Width: 10 ft.–20 ft.
Water: Moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness: USDA zones 4–8

Sizes & prices

#15Red Buckeye$279.99

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

Ask about this plant

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Landscape use & tree form

Use: Ornamental specimen
Form: Clumping; Rounded
Growth rate: Medium
Fruit / litter: Smooth capsules contain glossy brown seeds; leaf, stem and fruit fall can be messy. Seeds are poisonous to people and pets.
Major issues: Leaf blotch and summer scorch; early leaf loss may be normal.

Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Listed as resistant; protect young trees from browsing and antler rubbing.
Drought: Moist-site plant; summer heat and dryness can cause scorch and early leaf drop.
Wet soil: Tolerates occasional wetness; this does not imply permanent flooding tolerance.

Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.

Pollinators & wildlife

Attracts: Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Native range

Native range / parentage: Native to the southeastern United States; Kentucky is near the northern edge of its natural range. Species native to Kentucky.
Tristate native status: Native to the southeastern United States; Kentucky is near the northern edge of its natural range.

Keep in mind: Seeds and other plant parts are poisonous if eaten; keep away from children and pets.

Seasonal interest

Foliage: Palmate green leaves; often shed early, sometimes with red autumn tones.

Growing & care

Pruning: Preserve the naturally rounded, often multistemmed outline; remove unwanted basal stems only if training a single trunk.
Placement: Part shade helps prevent summer leaf scorch; early leaf drop is normal.
Soil: Moist, well-drained; occasional wetness tolerated

Sources & photo credits

NC State Extension

University of Minnesota Extension

eec.ky.gov

horticulture.mgcafe.uky.edu

Photo: JC Raulston Arboretum · CC BY 2.0

Image notes: Red buckeye. Form in bloom. Resized and converted to WebP.

Reviewed September 22, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.