Red Horsechestnut
Aesculus × carnea
Also listed as Aesculus × rubicunda, Aesculus × spectabilis
Also known as Flowering Horse-chestnut
Climate Match for your location
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A hybrid ornamental tree valued for its showy red to pink flower panicles appearing in late spring, smaller and more manageable than the common horsechestnut. The cultivar 'Briotii' produces particularly deep red flowers and is one of the most popular selections.
Why grow it
Red horsechestnut offers earlier and more abundant flowering than its parent species (Aesculus hippocastanum), with flowers appearing in late spring in shades of red to pink rather than white or pale pink. The hybrid is notably more compact, making it practical for medium-sized landscapes where the common horsechestnut would outgrow available space. It retains the architectural branching structure and summer shade production of horsechestnut species while delivering greater ornamental impact during bloom.
Watch out for
This tree benefits from consistent moisture during establishment and extended dry periods, particularly in regions with hot summers. Like other horsechestnut species, it is susceptible to leaf blotch and canker diseases in areas with high humidity or poor air circulation, so site selection and pruning for airflow can reduce problems. Seeds and seedpods are typical of the genus and may require management if dropped fruit litter is a concern in manicured settings.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Sapindaceae
Native Range
Hybrid origin (European cross)
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Notable Cultivars
'Briotii' is the most widely planted cultivar, distinguished by its deeper crimson-red flowers and more compact growth habit compared to the straight hybrid.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A hybrid ornamental tree valued for its showy red to pink flower panicles appearing in late spring, smaller and more manageable than the common horsechestnut. The cultivar 'Briotii' produces particularly deep red flowers and is one of the most popular selections.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Red Horsechestnut grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Red horsechestnut offers earlier and more abundant flowering than its parent species (Aesculus hippocastanum), with flowers appearing in late spring in shades of red to pink rather than white or pale pink. The hybrid is notably more compact, making it practical for medium-sized landscapes where the common horsechestnut would outgrow available space. It retains the architectural branching structure and summer shade production of horsechestnut species while delivering greater ornamental impact during bloom.
Watch out for
This tree benefits from consistent moisture during establishment and extended dry periods, particularly in regions with hot summers. Like other horsechestnut species, it is susceptible to leaf blotch and canker diseases in areas with high humidity or poor air circulation, so site selection and pruning for airflow can reduce problems. Seeds and seedpods are typical of the genus and may require management if dropped fruit litter is a concern in manicured settings.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Sapindaceae
Native Range
Hybrid origin (European cross)
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar sub-canopy trees you might consider:
Enter your ZIP code to see top native species and strong climate fits for you.
Companion Planting
Plants well with
Notable Cultivars
'Briotii' is the most widely planted cultivar, distinguished by its deeper crimson-red flowers and more compact growth habit compared to the straight hybrid.