Red Buckeye (Aesculus pavia): A Native Shrub with Showy Red Flower Spikes

Red Buckeye, Aesculus pavia, also called Firecracker Plant, is a large, deciduous shrub or small tree native to the southeastern U.S. Its spectacular red flower spikes in spring attract hummingbirds and butterflies.

Spring Fireworks

This plant grows 10–20 feet tall with a rounded habit. The leaves are palmately compound, dark green. In early spring, 6–10 inch long, upright panicles of tubular, deep red flowers appear. The fruit is a smooth, light brown capsule containing 1–3 shiny seeds (poisonous).

Woodland Gem

Aesculus pavia thrives in partial shade, moist, well-drained, acidic soil. It is an understory plant in nature. Hardy to zone 4. The seeds and young shoots are toxic. A superb native for woodland gardens, shade borders, and hummingbird gardens.