#TreeTalkThursday - Horse-Chestnut

Today, we will be discussing the Horse Chestnut Tree!

This tree is medium sized with deciduous compound leaves. The leaves have 5-7 leaflets with a stalk that is 3-7" long. The leaves can be 4-10" in length! The tree grows flowers that are fringed and bell shaped with a honeylike scent that usually bloom in late spring. The fruit they grow are encased in a thick round husk that are covered in long, sharp prickles. Inside the husk is 1-2 seeds that are glossy brown. 

This tree was introduced to North America in the 18th century, and they are primarily found in Europe and Asia. Fun Fact! The seeds are poisonous is ingested unlike its cousin the true Chestnut Tree.