Ohio Buckeye Tree

Botanical Name: Aesculus glabra
Family: Sapindaceae

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Ohio Buckeye Tree Identification

A.K.A. fetid buckeye and American buckeye

  • Native
  • Deciduous
  • Reaching 45′-60′ in height.
  • Rounded crown has a 25′-35′ spread
  • Approximately 2′ 6″ in diameter
  • Bark is a is grey with a seems to form into flakes
  • Palmately compound leaf with 5 (rarely 7) serrated leaflets 4.5″ – 6″ in length.
  • Flowers grow in clusters in the early spring and our quite beautiful when in full bloom
  • Fruit has 1-3 shiny nut-like seeds that are covered in an oval, sometimes round, capsule covered with small spines
  • State tree of Ohio (1953)
  • Contains tannic acid which has traditionally been removed for tanning hides
  • Although considered to be non-edible by many, there is a history of Hetuck being made from them. Hetuck is a mash that is said to have been made by Native Americans who roasted and peeled them.
  • Prefers deep, rich soils that are moist, yet well drained
  • Plant Hardiness Zones 4-7