Common Name: Red Buckeye

Scientific Name: Aesculus pavia

Family: Sapindaceae

Type: Deciduous

Habitat: Woodlands, Slopes, Along Streams and Rivers

Native: Yes

Height: Up to 20 feet

Light: Full sun to partial shade

Soil: Average, Well drained

Other: Highly poisonous

Description: Red Buckeye is a native, deciduous shrub or small tree that is known by its palmately compound, shiny, dark green leaves and its bright red, tubular flowers which bloom in spring. The Red Buckeye can make an excellent addition to pollinator gardens because of its flowers, which are very attractive to ruby-throated hummingbirds and butterflies. The Red Buckeye also produces nuts which are a favorite food source among squirrels. However, beware! The Red Buckeye is highly poisonous to humans if any part of the plant is ingested. This photo of a Red Buckeye was taken in the Woodland Garden at Creasey Mahan Nature Preserve.