A-Z of Services

Horse Chestnut

Name	Aesculus hippocastanum
Also known as	for the nuts - Conkers, Cheggies, Obblyonkers.
	Native to the Balkans & Turkey. Planted widely as an ornamental tree.
	deciduous tree
	The Horse Chestnut was brought back from Turkey by the French botanist, Charles de l' Écluse in 1576. It was planted initially in the grounds of big houses. In the 19th century the tree was planted in the new public parks and along streets allowing children the pleasure of playing conkers. The first written record of the game was in 1848 on the Isle of Wight.
	Conkers deter moths, contain soap-like chemicals used in shampoos and shower gels and contain aescin - an effective remedy for sprains and bruising. Traditionally the Turks used horse chestnuts to treat similar injuries in horses.
	up to 30m (100ft)
	May
	Large palmate leaves, spiky nutcases and in winter the large sticky buds.

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Key

	Habitat

	Plant Type

	Traditions & Culture

	Medicinal Qualities

	Size

	Flowering Season

	Distinguishing Features

	Poisonous

	Native or Foreign

	Please do not pick, collect or disturb this plant