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| Figure 66.—Horsechestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) |
Habitat and range.—This tree is largely cultivated in this country as an ornamental shade tree and occasionally escapes from cultivation.
Description.—The horsechestnut is a rather large tree, usually reaching 40 feet or more in height. The large leaves are composed of five to seven leaflets from 4 to 8 inches long, pointed, and broader at the top than at the base. In June it produces handsome flower clusters sometimes a foot in length, consisting of large white flowers spotted with yellow and red. The fruit is round and prickly and contains a large shining brown nut.
Part used.—Horsechestnut bark is collected in autumn, and preference is given to the bark from the younger branches.