AESCULUS x carnea ‘Aureomarginata’

Description

The Plant

The AESCULUS x carnea ‘Aureomarginata’ (syn. AESCULUS x carnea ‘Variegata’), also known as the red horse chestnut, is a marvelous small tree.

Firstly, it grows much slower than the typical species. As a result, after about ten years, it will only reach a height of 2 to 3 meters. Thus, it is very well-suited for planting in small to medium-sized gardens.

Its light green foliage is adorned with a charming yellow border all around. It is particularly radiant.

Then, once it has developed its beautiful foliage, it will display its stunning pink/red flowers like jewels.

Of course, this red horse chestnut is perfectly cold-hardy.

How to plant and care for AESCULUS x carnea ‘Aureomarginata’?

The Planting

To successfully plant this red-flowered horse chestnut, keep the following points in mind:

1. Choose a spot in full sun or partial shade. The more the plant is exposed to sunlight, the yellower the edges of the leaves will become, and the more flowers the plant will produce.
2. Being a naturally hardy plant, the soil can be light, normal, or heavy.
3. This plant will tolerate acidic, neutral, or calcareous soil.
4. For proper preparation of the planting hole, we have designed specific instructions available here.

Care

The A. x carnea ‘Aureomarginata’ requires no special maintenance. However, we recommend watering it regularly during dry periods for the first two years to help it establish itself.

Additionally, it’s good to know that pruning (completely optional) can be done in January or February, if you feel the need.

Furthermore, discover here how to water your garden and save water.

History and Origin

The AESCULUS x carnea originates from the crossing of AESCULUS hippocastanum and AESCULUS pavia, which gives it its pink to red flowering. Its origin likely dates back to Germany before 1820, where the red horse chestnut was developed as an artificial hybrid.

The typical species produces seeds that are capable of germinating.