Bottlebrush Buckeye

(Aesculus parviflora)

Bottlebrush Buckeye (Aesculus parviflora)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Aesculus parviflora, commonly known as Bottlebrush Buckeye, is a deciduous shrub native to rich, moist woods and stream banks in the southeastern United States, particularly in Alabama and Georgia. It typically grows to a height of 2–4 meters with a similar spread, and is noted for its symmetrical, mounded form. The shrub produces unique, erect panicles of flowers 20–50 cm long that bloom in July and resemble a bottle brush, with small white petals and long, protruding stamens that are attractive to pollinators. The flowers are quite showy and give way to pear-shaped capsules with polished, brown seeds that are ornamental but toxic if ingested. Bottlebrush Buckeye is valued for its striking summer flowers, its ability to attract butterflies, and its use as a dense, spreading shrub in shady areas of the landscape.

This species is an excellent choice for naturalistic plantings, woodland gardens, and shaded borders. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils, and while it can tolerate full sun in cooler climates, it generally prefers part shade to full shade, especially in the heat of the southern United States. It is hardy in USDA zones 4–8 and requires medium amounts of water. Bottlebrush Buckeye is relatively low maintenance but can suffer from leaf scorch in too much sun or drought conditions. It is not known to have aggressive roots or serious disease problems, making it a reliable choice for gardeners.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Tree
  • Height: 8-12 feet
  • Width: 8-15 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Rich, moist woods and stream banks in the southeastern United States, particularly in Alabama and Georgia

Other Names

Common Names: Shrubby Pavia , Dwarf Buckeye , Strauch-Rosskastanie , Pavier Blanc , Småblommig Hästkastanj

Scientific Names: Aesculus parviflora , Aesculus parviflora f. serotina , Aesculus macrostachya , Pavia macrostachya , Aesculus macrostachys , Pavia macrostachys , Pavia alba , Aesculus alba , Aesculus odorata , Macrothyrsus discolor

GBIF Accepted Name: Aesculus parviflora Walter