Red Buckeye is a small tree or clump-forming shrub native to the Southeastern US. It has an irregular, dense, rounded shape at maturity that can be pruned and shaped to achieve either form. It is early to leaf out in spring, with lustrous dark green, palmately compound leaves. Flowering occurs in late April to early May and lasts 2-3 weeks. Brilliant red panicles attract Ruby-throated Hummingbirds and long-tongued bees, who receive an early source of nectar and cross-pollinate the flowers in exchange.
Red Buckeyes are at their best in partial sun with moist, well-draining soil. They are able to flower well in the shade and hold their leaves longer into the summer and fall. They are slow to mature at 6-8" of growth per year, but they are well worth the patience! Fall brings no significant change to the foliage color, and leaf drop occurs earlier than most other tree species. Insect pests and diseases rarely bother this species.
Sources:
Native Trees, Shrubs, & Vines by William Cullina
Manual of Woody Landscape Plants by Michael A. Dirr
Missouri Botanical Garden
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Illinois Wildflowers
Grow Native! Salt-Tolerant Native Plants
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Aesculus pavia (Red Buckeye) - 3 gal
Red Buckeye
Plant Care & Installation Quick-Guide
Proper acclimation and installation are key to your plant's success. Please cross-reference these tips with your plant's specific ID tags:
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Pre-Planting: Store plants in a light-appropriate area on soil or grass (avoid hot concrete or asphalt) and water daily until the soil is saturated and the pot feels heavy. If temperatures drop below 30°F, move pots to a garage or cover them to prevent root freeze.
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Installation: Dig a hole matching the depth of the pot, remove the fabric container, and ensure the plant’s crown or root flare is level with the ground. Fill gaps with soil, water heavily, and apply 2 inches of mulch—keeping it clear of the stem.
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Ongoing Care: Check moisture daily by feeling 1–2 inches into the soil; water deeply at the base if the soil feels dry or warm. Newly installed plants require frequent watering (up to 3–4 times weekly in heat) until fully established, which can take a few months for perennials and up to two years for trees.