Aesculus globosa octandra

Sweet Buckeye

(syn. Aesculus octandra — often historically referenced by this name)

Yellow Buckeye (Aesculus flava, formerly Aesculus octandra) is a large, native shade tree valued for its upright flower panicles, bold palmate foliage, and reliable fall color. It is less commonly planted than Ohio buckeye but offers a cleaner, more refined appearance in suitable landscapes.

Key Characteristics and Benefits


Flowers & Color: Showy, upright clusters of yellow to yellow-green flowers in late spring, attractive to pollinators.



Foliage: Large, palmate leaves with a bold texture; summer foliage is medium to dark green.



Fall Color: Develops golden yellow to orange tones in autumn.



Growth Habit: Upright to oval-rounded canopy with strong structure.



Native Value: Eastern North American native with ecological benefits.



Size: Typically reaches 50–75 ft tall with a 40–50 ft spread.



Care and Requirements


Hardiness: USDA Zones 4–8



Light: Full sun to partial shade



Soil: Prefers deep, moist, well-drained soil; tolerates heavier soils better than many buckeyes



Water: Moderate; appreciates consistent moisture



Maintenance: Low; minimal pruning once established



Limitations: Sensitive to drought and compacted soils; nuts are toxic if ingested



Summary:
Yellow Buckeye is an excellent choice for parks, large lawns, campuses, and naturalized landscapes, offering spring flowers, bold foliage, and dependable fall color in a stately native shade tree.

Plant type

Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

70'

Width

40'

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Early Summer, Late Spring

Flower color

Gold

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Orange

Attracts

Butterflies

Soil

Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen

Shape

Globe Shaped

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No