Aesculus - Horse-chestnuts

Aesculus hippocastanum, Horse-chestnut, is a big, spectacular tree, especially when in flower. It has large leaves, like the fingers of a hand, and erect spikes of white flowers. The fruits are the familiar ‘conker’, encased in a round, prickly, green case.

Aesculus carnea, Red Horse-chestnut, is similar but often smaller in stature. The leaves often appear darker and more limp and wrinkled - and the flowers are unmistakably red.