Audubon® Native Red Buckeye

Uncommon in landscapes and absolutely stunning in full bloom, Red Buckeye will take your breath away the first time you see it in flower. This small, shrubby tree decks itself out in vivacious red blossoms each spring and steals the show. The flowers’ appearance coincides perfectly with the return of the ruby-throated hummingbirds from Central America, and these avian acrobats waste no time in diving right in and enjoying the sweet nectar. Each year, you’ll look forward to relaxing on your deck or patio while you not only admire the ravishing Buckeye blossoms, but also smile at those perky birds, back for the season.

Red Buckeye is found in the wild from North Carolina to Florida and west to eastern Texas. Buckeyes get their name from the notion that the smooth tan and brown seeds look like the eyes of a deer. The seeds are toxic and they were used in the past by Native Americans to catch fish. When crushed and thrown into the water, the seeds would release their poisons, stunning the fish for easy harvest.

In the forest, the Red Buckeye stands out not only at bloom-time, but earlier as well, when the foliage emerges. Buckeyes are the first native trees to leaf out in spring, and they do so with panache. Big, hand-shaped leaves burst forth from fat, shiny buds. The young leaves often have purple, pink, or coppery tones and they catch the soft spring light in magical ways. The sizzling red flowers appear a few weeks later. Plant this stunning tree near your patio so you can enjoy both the blooms and the hummingbirds that will visit!

Audubon is devoted to protecting birds and the places they need, while Bower & Branch is devoted to the growth of true native trees and plants–no cultivars or hybrids. Together, we strive to unite communities in conservation and inspire individuals to cultivate a better world for birds starting in their own backyards, balconies, or patios. By guiding and recommending trees and plants truly native and beneficial to your region, we can really start to make a difference.

What is the definition of Native?

“In the United States, a native plant is defined as one that was naturally found in a particular area before European colonization. Native plants are the foundation of a region’s biodiversity, providing essential food sources and shelter for birds, especially those threatened by the changing climate. Since native plants are adapted to local precipitation and soil conditions, they generally require less upkeep, therefore helping the environment and saving you time, water, and money.” – The National Audubon Society

Learn how you can help birds in your home and community through Audubon’s Plants for Birds program.

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