
Autumn Splendor Buckeye
Aesculus arnoldiana 'Autumn Splendor'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
360 inches
Width
300 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Medium
Humidity
Adaptable
Lifespan
Medium-lived tree
Native To
Hybrid of North American natives
Toxicity
All parts, especially seeds, are poisonous if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Aesculus x arnoldiana is a hybrid buckeye (A. glabra x A. flava x A. pavia) known for its palmately compound leaves and upright panicles of flowers. These are tough, adaptable small to medium-sized trees. 'Autumn Splendor' is a superior selection noted for its glossy dark green foliage that is highly resistant to leaf scorch and leaf blotch, common problems in other buckeyes. It boasts brilliant, long-lasting maroon-red fall color.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a site with full sun to part shade and well-drained soil.
- Dig a planting hole twice as wide as the root ball.
- Set the tree in the hole so the root flare is at ground level.
- Backfill with the original soil and water thoroughly.
- Apply a layer of mulch to conserve moisture.
- Water regularly during the first few seasons to establish.
Pro Tip
Its superior disease and scorch resistance makes it a much better choice than the common horsechestnut for most landscapes.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide supplemental water during extended droughts.
- Rake up fallen nuts in the fall to prevent unwanted seedlings.
- Prune in late winter if needed to remove dead or crossing branches.
Don't
- Do not plant in areas where children or pets might ingest the poisonous nuts.
- Avoid waterlogged soils.
- Don't require heavy fertilization.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Autumn Splendor Buckeye questions
What zones can Autumn Splendor Buckeye grow in?
Autumn Splendor Buckeye is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Autumn Splendor Buckeye deer resistant?
Yes — Autumn Splendor Buckeye is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Autumn Splendor Buckeye bloom?
Autumn Splendor Buckeye 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 Autumn Splendor Buckeye need full sun?
Autumn Splendor Buckeye does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Autumn Splendor Buckeye drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Autumn Splendor Buckeye handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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