Lavaburst® Ohio Buckeye - Aesculus glabra 'LavaDak' (RFM-76)

fall colors

Description

A narrow upright northern hardy Ohio buckeye selection with shorter internode growth than typical for the species. Foliage shows greater resistance to leaf scorch than non-selected buckeyes and maintains a bright green summer color changing to orange-red in autumn. Compact growth habit makes this selection ideal for limited space planting sites where a full sized buckeye is not suitable.

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zone 3b-6

Mature Size

Height: 25-28', Spread: 14-18'

Form (Shape)

Upright ovate

Growth Rate

Slow-medium to medium

Foliage

Deciduous
Summer: Bright Green
Autumn: Fall color change initiation in late September to early October with a gradual color change of scattered orange changing to entirely orange-red before leaf drop.

Texture

Medium-coarse

Flower

Terminal panicles bearing greenish cream-colored flowers and appearing with the foliage. Panicles are 4-5” in length, shorter than typical for the species. Short lived but attractive spring interest.

Fruit

Yellow brown capsule, which are smaller than typical for the species and produced in lesser amounts.

Light Preference

Full sun exposure

Soil Preference

Adaptable but prefers a well-drained, non-droughty soil, tolerates higher pH levels.

Propagation

Side or cleft graft onto seedling Aesculus rootstocks, best on A. glabra in northern climates to insure root hardiness.

Ornamental Attributes

A dense, attractive canopy with good foliage quality and a showy autumn color change to orange-red before leaf fall. Upright form that is much narrower than other Aesculus cultivars.

Landscape Attributes

Recommended for use as a landscape, boulevard, parks, and golf course tree.

Comments

This selection fills the need for a smaller, narrower buckeye for use in boulevard and landscape plantings where space is limited.

Patent Status

U.S. Trademark Registered - Lavaburst®

Licensing Status

This cultivar is available for non-exclusive licensing.

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