Ohio Buckeye
aesculus glabra
Also known as: ["Buckeye","Stinking Buckeye"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to the Midwest and Southeast United States, known for its palmate leaves and yellow-green flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Genus: | Aesculus |
| Botanical Name: | Aesculus glabra |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, preferably in a location with some protection from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–29 to 43°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with amendments.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; selective removal of problematic branches without drastic reduction.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight in cooler climates, or filtered sunlight in hotter regions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight. Protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates. Outdoor placement is ideal, but ensure shade during peak heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct sun on young plants.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Mulch to retain moisture; avoid compacted soil; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–7; tolerates cold winters but prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C) during active growth.
Protect from frost in early spring; shield from intense summer heat; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
annually in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing; water before and after application.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is common, though slow. Softwood cuttings can also be attempted for faster results.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer for cuttings; fall for seeds after collection.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and partially shaded conditions for cuttings; cold stratification may be needed for seeds.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; sterile seed-starting mix for seeds.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional for cuttings but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Seeds may take 1–3 years to germinate; cuttings root in 4–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags for humidity.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep cuttings consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to remove entire branches back to the trunk or main branch; heading cuts to shorten branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or crossing branches, and improve air circulation.
Tools
Hand pruners, loppers, pruning saw, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter for young plants; mature trees may stay in the same container.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; replace with fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot young plants every 2–3 years to refresh soil and accommodate growth. Mature trees rarely need repotting.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; inspect roots; water after repotting; place in shade for recovery.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat, leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold, and stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause leaf drop, slowed growth, or dieback of tender tissues, though mature plants are generally cold-hardy.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base to insulate roots. Protect young plants with frost cloth during hard freezes.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor, especially in combination with drought stress.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade, increase watering frequency, and use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding; water thoroughly after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply a light dose monthly during growing season, avoiding high-nitrogen formulas.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are also susceptible to the toxic effects of Aesculus glabra. Ingestion can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and neurological symptoms, which may require urgent veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe toxic compounds in Aesculus glabra can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms in dogs. The plant's seeds, in particular, are highly toxic and can lead to serious health complications if ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAesculus glabra, commonly known as Ohio buckeye, contains toxic compounds such as saponins and glucosides, which can cause significant physiological distress when ingested. These compounds interfere with cellular processes and can lead to severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Ohio Buckeye toxic to humans?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.
Q: Does the Ohio Buckeye attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is the Ohio Buckeye suitable for shade?
A: Yes, it is shade tolerant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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