Aesculus parviflora (Hippocastanaceae) Deciduous shrub

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Aesculus parviflora
Deciduous shrub
(1 Page of 5)

The Aesculus parviflora plant species is found in Southern N. America - Georgia and Alabama to Florida. It is a member of the Hippocastanaceae family. Some home gardeners know the variety as Ae macrostachya. Pavia macrostachya

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Aesculus parviflora
Family:  Hippocastanaceae
Author:  Walt.

Known Hazards:  The seed is rich in saponins[169]. Although poisonous, saponins are poorly absorbed by the human body and so most pass through without harm. Saponins are quite bitter and can be found in many common foods such as some beans. They can be removed by carefully leaching the seed or flour in running water. Thorough cooking, and perhaps changing the cooking water once, will also normally remove most of them. However, it is not advisible to eat large quantities of food that contain saponins. Saponins are much more toxic to some creatures, such as fish, and hunting tribes have traditionally put large quantities of them in streams, lakes etc in order to stupefy or kill the fish[K].

Mature Height:  4   Mature Width:  4

Habitat:  Wooded bluffs and rich woods, also by streams, on the coastal plain[72, 184].

Cultivation Notes: Prefers a deep loamy well-drained soil but is not too fussy[1, 11]. Succeeds in most situations in sun or shade[126, 200]. Plants are very shade tolerant[200]. A very ornamental plant[1, 11], it is hardy to about -20°c[184] though it is slow to establish[208]. The young growth in spring can be damaged by late frosts. The flowers have a delicate honey perfume[245]. This species does best on the western side of Britain according to one report[126] whilst another says that it is best in a continental climate, which would suggest that it was best grown in the eastern half of the country[200]. Trees rarely fruit in Britain except after a long hot, dry summer[11, 130]. Spreads freely by suckers[182]. Grows well on a lawn[11]. Most members of this genus transplant easily, even when fairly large[11].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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