tree

Fort McNair Red Horse Chestnut

Aesculus carnea 'Fort Mcnair'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

360 inches

Width

300 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Medium to wet

Humidity

Average to high

Lifespan

Medium

Native To

Hybrid Origin

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Aesculus x carnea is a hybrid deciduous tree known for its dense, rounded canopy and large, palmate leaves. It produces spectacular upright panicles of flowers in late spring. 'Fort McNair' is noted for its resistance to leaf blotch and scorch, which commonly plague the species. It produces large, showy panicles of deep pink flowers with yellow throats.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Valued for its spectacular floral display of large, pink flower panicles in late spring, which stand out against the large, dark green palmate leaves.

Provides dense shade due to its rounded crown and large foliage, making it a good choice for a lawn or park tree where summer cooling is desired.

The flowers are a valuable nectar source for bees and hummingbirds. The tree itself provides shelter for birds.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a location with full sun and moist, well-drained soil.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball.
Place the tree in the hole, ensuring the root flare is at soil level.
Backfill with the original soil, watering to settle.
Apply a 3-inch layer of mulch around the base.
Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to prevent leaf scorch.

Pro Tip

Provide consistent moisture and good air circulation to maintain healthy foliage and minimize leaf scorch, especially in hotter climates.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply and consistently through summer.
Rake up and dispose of fallen leaves in autumn to reduce disease.
Prune in late winter to remove dead or crossing branches.

Don't

Don't plant in hot, dry, or windy sites.
Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
Don't plant where falling fruit (conkers) will be a nuisance.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Handsome park or large lawn specimenFlowering shade tree for avenuesFocal point for its spring floral display

Companion Plants

Hosta Hydrangea Astilbe Heuchera Geranium

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Fort McNair Red Horse Chestnut questions

What zones can Fort McNair Red Horse Chestnut grow in?

Fort McNair Red Horse Chestnut is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Fort McNair Red Horse Chestnut deer resistant?

Yes — Fort McNair Red Horse Chestnut is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Fort McNair Red Horse Chestnut bloom?

Fort McNair Red Horse Chestnut typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Fort McNair Red Horse Chestnut need full sun?

Fort McNair Red Horse Chestnut does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.