Aesculus hippocastanum 'Princeton Upright'

Princeton Upright Buckeye

Aesculus hippocastanum ‘Princeton Upright’ is a distinctive upright-growing horse chestnut selected for its narrower, more vertical habit and classic spring flower display. It provides the bold foliage and floral impact of traditional horse chestnut while fitting better into space-conscious landscapes.

Key Characteristics and Benefits


Flowers & Color: Upright panicles of white flowers with yellow markings in mid to late spring, providing strong ornamental interest.



Growth Habit: Narrowly upright to columnar when young, broadening slightly with age but remaining more vertical than the species.



Foliage: Large, palmate dark green leaves with bold texture and dense summer shade.



Form Advantage: More compact profile than standard horse chestnut, improving usability in designed landscapes.



Size: Typically reaches 40–50 ft tall with a 25–30 ft spread.



Care and Requirements


Hardiness: USDA Zones 4–7



Light: Full sun to partial shade



Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil; tolerates heavier soils



Water: Moderate; benefits from consistent moisture



Maintenance: Low; minimal pruning required



Limitations: Susceptible to leaf scorch and leaf blotch in hot, dry conditions; nuts are produced and can be messy



Summary:
‘Princeton Upright’ Horse Chestnut is an excellent choice for parks, campuses, estates, and large residential landscapes where a vertical form and dramatic spring bloom are desired without the full spread of traditional horse chestnut.

Plant type

Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

40-50'

Width

25-30'

Hardiness zones

4–7

Sunlight

Full Sun

Bloom time

Early Summer, Late Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Yellow

Attracts

Butterflies

Soil

Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen

Shape

Oval/Rounded

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No