Horse-chestnut is a Balkan tree planted for shade in U.S. parks and along streets. Its spiny green husks split to reveal glossy brown seeds called conkers. The seeds resemble edible chestnuts but are poisonous.
Appearance
Growth form
This broad deciduous tree can reach about 50–75 ft (15–23 m).
Leaves
Each leaf spreads into five to seven leaflets from one point.
Flowers
Upright clusters carry creamy white flowers marked yellow and red.
Fruit
A green, spiny capsule opens around one or more glossy brown seeds.
Horse-chestnut has creamy white flower clusters marked yellow and red. Ohio buckeye has greenish yellow flowers; both can have prickly seed husks, so the flowers are a better clue.
Why they get mixed up · Both have hand-shaped leaves and shiny brown seeds.
Where it lives
Typical habitats
parks
streets
large gardens
Range
In the U.S., it is planted in cool temperate areas, including northern cities. Its wild home is southeastern Europe.
Preferred conditions
It favors moist, well-drained soil and sun to part shade.
Cautions
Cautions
The shiny seeds resemble edible chestnuts, but horse-chestnut seeds are poisonous.