Red Buckeye is a deciduous shrub or small tree that brings early spring magic to gardens in zones 4 through 8, growing 12 to 15 feet tall and wide. In April and May, it produces stunning upright panicles of red to orange-red, narrow-tubular flowers that hummingbirds can't resist. The shiny, dark green compound leaves emerge fresh in spring, though they typically fade by late summer in hot climates. This native species also develops showy, smooth seed capsules containing glossy buckeyes that add visual interest through fall. Red Buckeye thrives in moderate moisture and can handle both full sun and partial shade, making it flexible enough for many garden situations.
Partial Sun
Moderate
4-8
180in H x 180in W
—
High
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The early spring flower show is intense and utterly reliable, with brilliant red tubular blooms that emerge before many other shrubs even think about leafing out. Hummingbirds arrive like clockwork when those flowers open, turning your garden into a living wildlife display. The plant handles moderate watering and actually tolerates clay soil well, so it performs in gardens where many ornamentals struggle. One thing to keep in mind: the foliage declines significantly by midsummer, especially in dry conditions, so afternoon shade in hot climates keeps the plant looking fresher longer.
Red Buckeye functions as a flowering tree or shrub in the landscape, performing excellently in rain gardens where its tolerance for clay and moderate moisture needs align perfectly with water management goals. It's also valued as a hedge plant and wherever early spring color and pollinator attraction matter.
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Red Buckeye can be grown from seed. Collect ripe seed capsules in fall and extract the glossy buckeyes inside. Stratify seed over winter or sow directly in fall for spring germination.
Red Buckeye's irregular, rounded crown develops naturally without heavy pruning requirements. Remove any dead or crossing branches in late winter or early spring before flowering begins. Light pruning to shape the plant or maintain hedge form can be done after bloom.
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