Horse Chestnut

The horse chestnut is a magnificent, large deciduous tree, famous for its grand stature and impressive spring display. Growing 20-30 metres tall, it forms a broad, domed canopy, providing substantial shade. In May, it produces spectacular upright clusters of white flowers, often marked with yellow and red, giving rise to its common name 'candle tree'. These are followed by the familiar prickly green cases containing glossy brown 'conkers'. Hardy and adaptable to most well-drained soils, it prefers full sun. While stunning, it is susceptible to leaf miner and bleeding canker in the UK, but remains a stately choice for large parklands and avenues.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained.

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.

Flowering: May.