Buckeyes are known for their flower displays in May; yellow buckeyes are no exception. This Illinois native produces yellow flowers in upright clusters measuring up to 6 inches tall. In fall, the leaves display a yellow-orange color. It is susceptible to leaf blotch and may be difficult to find in nurseries. Formerly known as Aesculus octandra.
Botanical name:
All Common Names:
Family (English):
Family (Botanic):
Planting Site:
- Residential and parks,
- City parkway,
- Wide median
Tree or Plant Type:
- Tree
Foliage:
- Deciduous (seasonally loses leaves)
Native Locale:
- Illinois,
- North America
Landscape Uses:
- Parkway/street,
- Shade tree,
- Specimen
Size Range:
- Large tree (more than 40 feet)
Mature Height:
Mature Width:
Light Exposure:
- Full sun (6 hrs direct light daily),
- Partial sun/shade (4-6 hrs light daily)
Hardiness Zones:
- Zone 4,
- Zone 5 (Chicago),
- Zone 6,
- Zone 7,
- Zone 8
Soil Preference:
- Acid soil,
- Moist, well-drained soil
Tolerances:
- Dry sites,
- Wet sites,
- Alkaline soil
Acid Soils:
- Prefers
Alkaline Soils:
- Moderately Tolerant
Salt Spray:
- Moderately Tolerant
Soil Salt:
- Intolerant
Drought Conditions:
- Moderately Tolerant
Poor Drainage:
- Tolerant
Planting Considerations:
- May be difficult to find in nurseries,
- Messy fruit/plant parts
Ornamental Interest:
- Spring blossoms,
- Fall color,
- Showy flowers,
- Attractive bark
Season of Interest:
- Mid spring,
- Early fall,
- Mid fall
Flower Color & Fragrance:
- Yellow
Shape or Form:
- Oval,
- Upright
Growth Rate:
- Moderate
Transplants Well:
- No
Wildlife:
- Small mammals
More Information:
Tree & Plant Care
Difficult to transplant due to a taproot.
Tolerant of wet sites; prefers a slightly acid soil.
Disease, pests, and problems
Prone to leaf scorch and a fungal leaf blotch.
Disease, pests, and problem resistance
Tolerant of black walnut toxicity.
Native geographic location and habitat
In Illinois, native only to a few counties in the far southern end of the state.
Often found along rivers and streams.
Bark color and texture
The bark is light gray and has a flaky, scaly texture.
Leaf or needle arrangement, size, shape, and texture
Opposite leaves are palmately compound with five leaflets. Leaf is about 6 inches long overall.
Fall color is orange.
Flower arrangement, shape, and size
Large, 6-8 inch long, upright terminal clusters of yellow flowers tinged with green.
Fruit, cone, nut, and seed descriptions
Shiny brown nuts in a smooth husk.
Buckeyes should not be eaten.