Bottlebrush buckeye (Aesculus parviflora)

Bottlebrush buckeye (Aesculus parviflora) is a standout deciduous shrub, renowned for its stunning summer blooms. Here are its key characteristics and benefits for gardens and landscapes:

**Characteristics:**
1. **Eye-Catching Flowers:** Boasts impressive, white, bottlebrush-like flower spikes adorned with crimson and rosy stamens, blooming in early to mid-summer.
2. **Dense Foliage:** Features lush, dark green, palmate leaves that turn a striking yellow in the fall.
3. **Growth Habit:** Forms a dense, multi-stemmed shrub, typically reaching 6-12 feet in height and width.
4. **Shade Adaptability:** Thrives in partial to full shade, making it ideal for shaded garden areas.
5. **Hardy:** Generally resistant to pests and diseases, requiring minimal maintenance.

**Benefits:**
1. **Visual Interest:** Adds significant aesthetic value with its unique floral display and seasonally changing foliage.
2. **Wildlife Attraction:** Draws pollinators, including hummingbirds and butterflies, enhancing garden biodiversity.
3. **Erosion Control:** Its dense root system helps stabilize soil, making it useful for erosion-prone areas.
4. **Versatile Growth:** Adapts well to various soil types, from clay to sandy soils.
5. **Focal Point:** Ideal for use as a focal point in garden designs, providing a striking visual anchor.

With its exceptional blooms and adaptability, Bottlebrush buckeye is an excellent choice for adding beauty and ecological benefits to any garden or landscape.