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California Buckeye

Aesculus Californica

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Overview

The California Buckeye, or Aesculus californica, is a versatile deciduous shrub or small tree, typically growing 13-39 feet tall. Ideal for USDA zones 7-8, it boasts lush, palmate leaves and erect panicles of fragrant, white flowers in spring. This drought-tolerant native flourishes in full sun to partial shade on well-drained soils. Its distinctive, large seed pods add autumn interest. Caution: seeds and foliage are toxic if ingested.

Sun Full, HalfWater Low, Very LowZones 8–10Climate Mediterranean, Temperate
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — typically growing 13-39 feet tall
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — is a versatile deciduous shrub or small treeCalifornia Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — Its distinctive, large seed pods add autumn interestCalifornia Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — Caution: seeds and foliage are toxic if ingestedCalifornia Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — scientifically named Aesculus californicaCalifornia Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — presents as a captivating addition to any landscapeCalifornia Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — This deciduous shrub or small tree is native to the California foothills and coastal regions+89

Culture

Sun
Full, Half
Water
Low, Very Low
USDA zones
8–10

Shape & size

Mature height
15–40 Ft.
Mature width
15–40 Ft.

Classification

Family
Sapindaceae
Climate
Mediterranean, Temperate

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Photos (96)

California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — Gardeners should be aware that all parts of this plant
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — is a versatile deciduous shrub or small tree
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — Its distinctive, large seed pods add autumn interest
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — Caution: seeds and foliage are toxic if ingested
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — scientifically named Aesculus californica
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — presents as a captivating addition to any landscape
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — This deciduous shrub or small tree is native to the California foothills and coastal regions
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — sculptural form with multiple branches forming from its base
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — comprising palmately compound leaves that can measure up to 10 inches across
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — Each leaflet, with 5 to 7 lobes, unfurls to an noteworthy size
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — the plant becomes a focal point with its impressive 6 to 12-inch-long panicles of white to pale pink flowers
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — rich with a sweet fragrance that attracts a bevy of pollinators.<br><br>Following the bloom
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — glossy seeds resembling the eyes of a deer
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — are toxic when consumed.<br><br>This species is drought tolerant once established
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — In optimal conditions, it prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate full sun to partial shade
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — The California Buckeye can drop its leaves in late summer to conserve water
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — but this characteristic is a natural response to its environment and not a sign of ill health
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — When incorporating the Buckeye into a garden design
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — ensure to allow ample space for growth and note its seasonal changes
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — as it provides both shade and sculptural interest throughout the year
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — pink and white flowers in the garden
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — shrub / tree with pink and white blooms
California Buckeye (Aesculus Californica) — shrub / tree for full or half

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