Common Name: Ohio Buckeye
Scientific Name: Aesculus glabra
Location: Ophelia Parrish
Identifying Features
Ohio Buckeye can reach heights of 60 feet. The dark green leaves are palmately compound with 5 leaflets that fan out from a common point. Elongate spikes of greenish-yellow flowers appear in the spring (April to May), as the leaves unfold. Chestnut-colored seeds (buckeyes) are produced in spiny husks (dehiscent capsules). Ohio Buckeyes are among the first to show color in the spring and the first to drop leaves in the fall. There are three Ohio Buckeye trees here by Ophelia Parish. The bark is gray with plate-like shaped flakes.
Distribution/Geography
This tree is found in rocky woodland areas and prefers drier soils. Ohio Buckeye is native to Northeast to Midwest regions of the United States.
Uses
These fruits are toxic to humans until boiled. The lightweight, non-splitting wood is often used for artificial limbs as well as paper, boxes, toys. The flowers have been used for rheumatism.
History
Native Americans roasted and mashed the buckeye nut calling it “Hetuck”.
Tree fact
Keeping a buckeye nut in your pocket might bring you good luck.