Aesculus carnea · Sapindaceae

Red Horse Chestnut

⚠️ Not safe for petsDeciduous life cycle, with leaf loss in winter.200 to 400 cm

LightFull sun

WaterMedium watering; keep the soil slightly moist.

DifficultyMedium

ColdResists light frosts down to minus 5 degrees Celsius.

Full sunMedium watering; keep the soil slightly moist.MediumResists light frosts down to minus 5 degrees Celsius.

Description & origin

The Red Horse Chestnut is a large ornamental tree known for its showy pink to red flowers. It is often used in gardens and parks for its beauty and dense shade.

Size

Can reach up to 4 meters in domestic cultivation.

Foliage

Deciduous foliage, loses leaves in winter.

Flowering

Blooms in spring with clusters of pink to red flowers.

Detailed care

Light

Prefers full sun locations for healthy growth.

Soil

Well-drained soil rich in organic matter is ideal.

Watering

Regular watering, keeping the soil slightly moist, especially during hot periods.

Temperature

Tolerates cold well but prefers temperate climates.

Fertilising

Fertilize in spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote growth.

Repotting

Transplant in spring when young to avoid stress.

Pruning

Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead branches.

Propagation

Propagation by seed is common but can be slow.

Common problems

Powdery Mildew

Fungus causing white spots on leaves. Treat with appropriate fungicide.

Aphids

Insects that suck sap from leaves. Control with insecticide.

Trunk Canker

Disease causing lesions on the trunk. Remove affected branches and apply treatment.

Uses & curiosities

In the garden

Dense shade
Attracts pollinators
Ornamental element

Other uses

Often planted in parks and large gardens.

Did you know…

Despite its name, the Red Horse Chestnut is not native to India but to Europe.