Buckeye trees, particularly the Ohio Buckeye and the Yellow Buckeye, are iconic trees throughout much of the Midwest, and Missouri is no exception when it comes to their presence. These hardy trees offer visual appeal and grow well in soil and weather common in the Midwest, including Missouri. If you’re interested in adding new trees to your home or business landscape, the buckeye certainly merits consideration.

Appearance and Description

Buckeye trees are deciduous, medium to large-sized trees that are known for their distinctive features. In Missouri, you’ll find both the Ohio Buckeye (Aesculus glabra) and the Yellow Buckeye (Aesculus flava). While they share some similarities, each variety has its own unique characteristics.

The Ohio Buckeye is typically a smaller variety, reaching heights of 30 to 50 feet, though it can grow up to 75 feet under ideal conditions. Its leaves are large, featuring five to seven pointed leaflets that radiate from a central point. The leaves are bright green in summer, turning a brilliant yellow in autumn before dropping. The tree blooms in spring with showy clusters of yellow-green flowers, which are arranged in large upright panicles. These flowers, which range from four to six inches in length, are followed by the tree’s most recognizable feature—the spiny seed capsules containing shiny, brown seeds known as “buckeyes.” These seeds are often collected as good luck charms.

The Yellow Buckeye is a larger tree, often reaching heights of 50 to 75 feet. It has slightly larger, more elongated leaves compared to the Ohio Buckeye, and its flowers are a vibrant yellow that attracts pollinators. The Yellow Buckeye is a bit more tolerant of colder temperatures and is typically found in more northern regions of Missouri.

Both species of buckeyes have smooth, gray bark when young that becomes more textured with age. These trees can serve as excellent shade trees due to their wide canopies and tall stature.

Ideal Environment

Buckeye trees are native to the temperate regions of North America, and Missouri’s climate provides an ideal setting for their growth. However, to ensure these trees thrive, they must be planted in the right conditions.

• Soil: Buckeyes prefer well-drained, fertile soils that retain moisture but don’t become waterlogged. In Missouri, you’ll typically find these trees thriving in rich, loamy soils, particularly along riverbanks, floodplains, and wooded areas. They can tolerate a variety of soil types, but they thrive best in slightly acidic to neutral soils.
• Light and Space: Buckeyes do best in full sun to partial shade. When planting in Missouri, it’s important to provide these trees with ample sunlight, especially if you want them to bloom and produce seeds. However, they can tolerate some shade, making them a versatile choice for areas with intermittent sunlight. Keep in mind that buckeyes can grow wide, so they require plenty of space to spread out—at least 15 to 20 feet from other trees or structures is ideal.
• Temperature: Buckeyes are well-suited to the changeable weather of Missouri, with its cold winters and warm summers. Buckeye trees tolerate cold temperatures well, but do best when the weather is not excessively hot or dry for extended periods. Buckeyes may suffer in the extreme heat of summer if they’re not watered properly.

Care and Maintenance

Caring for buckeye trees in Missouri is relatively simple, but a few key practices will ensure they grow strong and healthy.

• Planting Location: Choose a location that offers full or partial sun and is away from strong winds. Ensure the soil is well-drained and nutrient-rich. Avoid planting buckeyes in areas prone to heavy flooding or areas that are too dry.
• Watering: Buckeye trees like moist, well-drained soil, especially in their early years. During dry spells, deep watering is essential to keep the roots hydrated. However, they don’t like standing water, so avoid overwatering. Once established, the tree becomes more drought-tolerant, but it still appreciates regular rainfall.
• Pruning: Prune your buckeye tree in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Focus on removing dead, diseased, or broken branches, and thin the canopy to improve air circulation. Avoid heavy pruning, as buckeyes naturally grow with a broad, rounded shape, and aggressive cutting can harm the tree.
• Fertilizing: Buckeyes typically don’t require heavy fertilization. If the soil is rich in organic matter, the tree will thrive without additional fertilizer. However, if you notice yellowing leaves or poor growth, a slow-release, balanced fertilizer can help. Apply it in early spring when the tree starts its growing season.
• Mulching: Applying a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree will help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Use mulch such as wood chips or bark, but make sure to leave some space around the trunk to avoid rot.

Common Threats

Although buckeye trees are relatively hardy, they do face several threats in Missouri that can affect their health.

• Pests: Buckeyes are susceptible to a variety of pests, including aphids, scale insects, and leaf miners. These insects feed on the sap of the tree, weakening it over time. Regularly inspect your tree for signs of pest infestations, such as yellowing or curled leaves. In severe cases, insecticidal soap or horticultural oils may be necessary to control pest populations.
• Fungal Diseases: Leaf blotch, caused by the fungus Guignardia aesculi, is a common issue for buckeye trees. This disease causes dark spots on leaves and can lead to premature leaf drop. While not usually fatal, it can make the tree look unsightly. If you notice symptoms, prune and dispose of affected leaves to limit the spread of spores. Maintaining good air circulation around the tree can also help prevent fungal infections.
• Canker Diseases: Canker diseases, which cause lesions on the tree’s bark and cankers on branches, are another potential threat. These diseases often enter through wounds caused by pruning or environmental stress. Keep the tree healthy and avoid excessive pruning to reduce the risk of cankers. If cankers appear, prune them out promptly.
• Environmental Stress: Like many trees, buckeyes can be stressed by extreme weather conditions, such as prolonged drought or heavy storms. Stressed trees are more vulnerable to pests and diseases. Regular watering, proper mulching, and choosing the right planting site can help reduce environmental stress.

Need Help with Your Tree Care? Call us Today!

Ohio and Yellow Buckeye trees are robust and visually striking trees that can add value to your landscape while supporting local wildlife and the environment. With proper care, including a well-chosen planting site, regular watering, and occasional pruning, your Buckeye can thrive for decades. While pests, diseases, and environmental stress are potential threats, these can be managed with minimal care and attention. Whether for its shade, beauty, or contribution to the environment, Ohio and Yellow Buckeye trees are worth considering for your yard or natural space.

Remember, our certified arborists and plant care specialists are experts in guiding homeowners through the process of caring for your trees, shrubs and ornamental plants for your landscaping. They can assess the health of your trees, make recommendations regarding their care, identify hazards posed by trees or limbs, and if necessary, take them down and eliminate any potential threats. Contact us today! We’re here to help!