ABSTRACT
Plant Description A genus of some 20 species of trees and shrubs, Aesculus are frequently planted as ornamental trees for their attractive flowers, leaves, and fruits. At least half of the 20 known species grow in North America. Extensive hybridization has occurred amongst the species. These deciduous trees generally prefer moist soil conditions and can develop into large specimen trees. Trunks have gray to brown smooth or rough bark, the characteristic large palmate leaves have 5-11 leaflets. Inflorescences are produced terminally on branches, either before or after leads are produced. Flower color is typically white, creamy-yellow, or red (Figures 21 and 22). Fruits are smooth or warty capsules that break open in the fall to release one to three dark brown shiny seeds that have a characteristic lighter scar on one side (Figures 23 and 24).
