Summary
Red buckeye (Aesculus pavia) reveals its vivid red tubular flowers arranged in large terminal racemes just in time for the return of the ruby-throated hummingbirds. Typically growing in moist, fertile soil as an understory tree, this 10-20’ tall tree is adaptable to full sun and drier conditions. The glossy green, palm-shaped leaves lend a tropical texture to any garden. Set off the pest-free foliage with a backdrop of an eastern white pine (Pinus strobus) or combine with larger woodland trees such as tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera) and shagbark hickory (Carya ovata). Combine red buckeye with other plants that attract hummingbirds, such as wild columbine (Aquilegia canadensis), Indian pink (Spigelia marilandica), scarlet bee balm (Monarda didyma), and cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis). Zones 4-8
More Details
- Plant Type
shrub, tree - Sun/Shade Conditions
filtered-shade, full-sun, partial-shade - Foliage Character
deciduous - Soil Moisture
average, dry, moist - Flowering Period
late-spring, mid-spring - Soil PH
acidic, adaptable - Flower Color
red - Summer Foliage Color
green - Fall Foliage Color
brown, green, yellow - Fruit/Seed Color
brown, tan