Also known as Sweet Buckeye
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Yellow Buckeye (Aesculus flava) is a large deciduous tree native to the southeastern United States, known for its attractive yellow flowers and smooth, pale bark.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Thrives in full sun but tolerates light shade. More sun promotes better flowering.
Regular
50% intensity
Prefers consistently moist soil, especially when young. Avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 4-8. Tolerates a range of temperatures but appreciates protection from extreme heat.
Light
25% intensity
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilization.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains saponins, which can cause digestive upset if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Yellow Buckeye prefers consistently moist soil, especially when young. Water deeply during dry spells, ensuring the soil doesn't become waterlogged. Reduce watering slightly in winter.
Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. Aim for even moisture throughout the growing season.
Prune to shape the tree and remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before leaves emerge. Avoid heavy pruning, as this species can be sensitive.
Focus on maintaining a strong central leader and well-spaced scaffold branches.
Seeds are the primary method of propagation. Collect fruits after they mature and sow them in fall in a cold frame or stratified in moist sand in a refrigerator over winter. Germination can be erratic.
Cuttings are rarely successful.
Repot young Yellow Buckeye trees only when they become root-bound, typically every 2-3 years. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot in early spring before new growth starts. Avoid disturbing the root ball excessively.
Mature trees generally do not require repotting.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Yellow Buckeye (Aesculus flava)
Where Yellow Buckeye (Aesculus flava) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Aesculus |
| Species | Aesculus flava |
Similar in genus Aesculus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
