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Aesculus carnea 'Fort McNair'
Common Name: Ft. McNair Red Horsechesnut
Aesculus × carnea ‘Fort McNair’ is a refined red horse chestnut cultivar selected for its exceptional flower color, improved form, and strong landscape performance. It is widely regarded as one of the best red-flowering horse chestnuts for ornamental use. Key Characteristics and Benefits Flowers & Color: Large, upright panicles of deep rose-red to crimson flowers in mid to late spring, often richer and more consistent than ‘Briotii’. Foliage: Large, palmate dark green leaves with good substance and relatively clean summer appearance. Growth Habit: Upright to broadly rounded canopy with strong branching and a stately, symmetrical form. Ornamental Value: Excellent spring flowering tree with bold texture and strong visual impact. Size: Typically reaches 35–45 ft tall with a 30–40 ft spread. Care and Requirements Hardiness: USDA Zones 5–8 Light: Full sun to partial shade Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil; adapts to average garden soils Water: Moderate; benefits from consistent moisture Maintenance: Low; minimal pruning required Tolerance: Moderate tolerance of urban conditions; avoid drought, compaction, and heavy road salt Summary: ‘Fort McNair’ Red Horse Chestnut is an outstanding specimen and shade tree for lawns, parks, campuses, and large residential landscapes, prized for its vivid spring flowers, refined structure, and dependable ornamental performance.
| Plant Type: | Flowering Ornamental Tree |
| Width: | 25-30' |
| Height: | 30' |
| Fragrant: | Yes |
| Fruit | Yes |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Zone: | 5 - 8 |
| Deer Resistant: | Yes |
| Salt Tolerant: | No |
| Drought Tolerant: | No |
| Attract: | Butterflies |
| Exposure: | Full Sun |
| Bloom Time: | Late Spring, Early Summer |
| Bark Type: | Smooth |
| Landscape/Use: | Specimen, Accent Plant |
| Shape: | Broad Upright, Clump |
| Soil Type | Clay, Loamy, Well Drained |
| Flower Color: | Hot Pink, Pink |
| Leaf Color: | Dark Green |
| Fall Color: | Yellow |
