Product description
‘Aesculus Hippocastanum’, or commonly known as the Horse Chestnut or Conker tree, is a large tree with a broad to high domed, dense crown, and lower branches drooping picturesquely and decorating your garden as the tree reaches its maturity. These large trees produce very decorative palmate, opposite leaves, which in combination with the large winter buds can make your winter garden look pretty amazing. mainly used for planting on moist and wet sites
The Conker tree produces grey-brown shoots with thick, dark brown flaking bark. Dark green leaflets appear on 10-20 cm long blades of deciduous and opposite petioles as a compound palmate. The leaves turn bright yellow to brown in autumn. The white flowers of Horse Chestnut with yellow-red blotches in long upright panicles are most interesting when they bloom in May. The pistils of the flowers change colours from yellow to brick red, and later to crimson.
This tree thrives in its natural habitat in moist mountain forests on nutrient-rich, deep sandy and loamy soils. However, it has no special requirements, and it will easily grow in moist to wet, deep, nutrient-rich soils that are moderately acid to alkaline. Give it a sunny to light shade spot in your garden.
Aesculus Hippocastanum is very frost tolerant and demands low maintenance. It is sensitive to atmospheric pollution and salt. It is a magnificent, large-crowned tree that will grow 45 to 50 cm in height annually.
Horse chestnuts are amongst the most popular trees, planted for their dense canopies to cast shade in parks, along avenues and in courtyards. Given sufficient space, on lawns or along water courses, horse chestnuts will grow into handsome specimen trees.
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
When to plant
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
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Planting and period of interest times are general guidelines and may vary based on your location and conditions. For best results, consult local gardening resources.
Instructions
Top Tip
Prune Aesculus trees during late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and promote healthy growth. Take care not to over-prune, as these trees naturally develop an attractive shape. Protect young trees from strong winds, and consider applying a slow-release fertiliser in spring to encourage vigorous growth and abundant flowering.
How to Water
Water your Aesculus tree deeply after planting and continue to water regularly during its first year to establish strong roots. Once established, these trees are moderately drought-tolerant but benefit from additional watering during prolonged dry periods. Avoid overwatering, as waterlogged soil can lead to root issues. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimise evaporation, ensuring the soil remains moist but not saturated.
How to Plant
To plant an Aesculus tree, choose a sunny or partially shaded spot with deep, well-draining soil. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball, ensuring the tree’s root collar remains level with the soil surface. Soak the root ball in water before planting to reduce transplant shock. Backfill the hole with a mix of soil and organic matter, firm gently, and water thoroughly. Adding a thick mulch layer around the base will help retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping it clear of the trunk.