<h1>Red Horse-chestnut, Aesculus x carnea</h1>

Origin and lineage:
A hybrid:
The red horse-chestnut (Aesculus x carnea) is not a naturally occurring species but a man-made hybrid between the red buckeye (A. pavia) and the common horse-chestnut (A. hippocastanum).
Uncertain beginnings:
The exact origin of the cross is unknown, but it's believed to have happened in Germany sometime before 1820.

Appearance and growth:
Medium-sized beauty:
It reaches a mature height of around 40 feet with a similar spread, making it a good choice for larger gardens and parks.
Striking flowers:
The most notable feature is its showy flower clusters. Unlike the common horse-chestnut's white blooms, the red horse-chestnut boasts rose-red, cone-shaped flower clusters that appear in May, adding a vibrant pop of color in spring.
Lush foliage:
The tree has dark green, palmate leaves (resembling an open hand) that turn a beautiful yellow in fall.

Other characteristics:
Adaptable to conditions:
It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. It's also tolerant of urban pollution.
Fast grower:
The red horse-chestnut grows at a medium rate, reaching maturity in a reasonable timeframe.
Moderate lifespan:
With proper care, these trees can live for 60 years or more.
Potential downside:
The spiky fruit can be messy when it falls, requiring occasional cleanup.

Additional notes:
Not to be confused with the horse chestnut:
While they share a similar name, the red horse-chestnut is a distinct hybrid with different flower colors and some variations in growth habit.
Toxic to animals:
It's important to note that, like other horse-chestnut varieties, the red horse-chestnut's seeds and fruits are toxic to animals, so keep them out of reach of pets.