Aesculus hippocastanum (Horsechestnut)

Aesculus hippocastanum, commonly known as Horsechestnut, is a large deciduous tree that belongs to the Sapindaceae family. It is native to the Balkan Peninsula but is widely cultivated around the world. The tree features a broad, rounded crown with dense foliage and palmate leaves composed of five to seven leaflets. In spring, it produces large, showy, upright spikes of white flowers with a yellow or pinkish blotch at the base. Following the blossoms, it develops spiny fruits that contain shiny dark brown seeds, known as conkers.