Aesculus hippocastanum | Horse Chestnut - Girth 10-12cm - 260-280cm - 70lt

The Aesculus hippocastanum, commonly known as the horse chestnut, is a deciduous tree native to the Balkan Peninsula in Southeast Europe. This majestic tree, widely cultivated throughout the UK, is celebrated for its striking appearance and historical significance.

Horse chestnuts can grow up to 30 meters tall, boasting a broad, rounded canopy that provides ample shade. The bark is greyish-brown, developing scaly plates with age. Its leaves are large and palmately compound, typically composed of five to seven leaflets radiating from a central point, resembling an open hand.

In spring, the horse chestnut produces magnificent conical flower clusters, known as inflorescences or 'candles'. These are composed of numerous small, white flowers with red or yellow blotches at the base of the petals. The flowers are hermaphroditic, containing both male and female reproductive organs, and are highly attractive to pollinators, particularly bees.

The tree's fruit, commonly referred to as conkers, develop within a spiky green husk. When mature, the husks split open to reveal the shiny brown seeds inside. Conkers are a familiar sight in autumn and are traditionally used in children's games.

The Aesculus hippocastanum is a remarkable tree, known for its impressive stature, distinctive leaves, and iconic conkers, making it a beloved feature in parks, gardens, and streetscapes across the UK.