Horse Chestnut

Aesculus hippocastanum

A native of the Balkans, the Horse Chestnut was introduced to the British Isles in the late sixteenth century and now naturalises freely in woods and hedgerows. The ‘spreading chestnut tree’ can reach more than 35m tall and has become one of the best known flowering trees of the largest size. Its stately proportions and candelabra white flowers, up to 30cm long, have made it a popular tree in parks, gardens, avenues and village greens. Its autumn fruits, called Conkers, Cheggies or Obblyonkers have been used in the widely played childrens game since the nineteenth century – although similar games were previously played with hazel nuts or snails. The winter buds are large and resinous making them a useful addition to the flower arranger’s palette. The chemical aescin, extracted from the fruit, has recently been found to be a powerful remedy for sprains and bruising. The tree has recently been affected by pests and diseases from mainland Europe. The Horse Chestnut Leaf Miner (Cameraria) and a fungal disease of the leaves (Guignardia) cause dramatic symptoms but do not appear to be seriously harmful. More worryingly, Horse Chestnut Bleeding Canker, caused by a bacterium, is spreading rapidly and is potentially lethal.

Situation
Horse Chestnut grows well in most soils and tolerates hard surfaces well. Due to its size, it requires space and is frequently used as a landscape feature in parks and avenues.

Season/Life Cycle

Uses
Planted mainly as an ornamental tree in parks and larger gardens and in urban situations and as a shade tree for horses or cattle. The timber is soft and lacks strength and is chiefly used in the manufacture of kitchen utensils and toys. The nuts are abundantly produced and eaten by some animals, notably deer.