Aesculus turbinata, commonly known as Japanese horse-chestnut, is a deciduous tree native to mountain forests in Japan. It can grow to a height of 98 feet (30 meters) and is characterized by a broad, rounded crown. The leaves are palmately compound, providing a dense canopy. The tree produces showy white to pale yellowish flowers in erect panicles during late spring to early summer, followed by dark brown capsules containing large, glossy seeds. These seeds are not only historically significant as a food source for the Jōmon people but are also used in contemporary Japanese cuisine to make "Tochimochi."

Japanese horse-chestnut is valued for its ornamental flowers and stately form, making it a popular choice for large gardens, parks, and avenues. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soils, though it is adaptable to various soil types. While it is relatively low-maintenance, it requires ample space to accommodate its size. Gardeners should be aware of potential issues such as leaf scorch and horse-chestnut leaf miner. Despite these concerns, its resistance to pollution makes it suitable for urban environments.CC BY-SA 4.0