Eetbare tuin-edible garden Aesculus indica - Indian Horse Chestnut

• Article number: AESIND01

Aesculus indica, the Indian horse chestnut, is an elegant deciduous tree native to the Himalayan region. It stands out with its large, palmate leaves and striking early summer blooms. Unlike the common horse chestnut, this species blooms later, extending the flowering season in any landscape.

The tree has a broad, oval to pyramidal shape and can reach 15–20 m in height. The compound leaves are lush green and graceful. In June and July, it produces tall upright panicles (up to 30 cm) of creamy white flowers with hints of yellow or pink, which attract bees and butterflies.

In autumn, leathery fruit husks appear, enclosing one or two shiny brown seeds. These seeds are not edible, though they are traditionally used in Indian herbal medicine.

Aesculus indica is adaptable and thrives in well-drained soil in sun to partial shade. Once established, it tolerates occasional drought. Its stately form and late flowering make it ideal as a solitary feature tree in gardens or parks.

Young trees benefit from winter protection in colder regions, but mature specimens are moderately hardy.

Hardiness zone: 7b (–14 °C)
Tip: A perfect addition to extend the flowering season beyond spring into early summer.