This well-known introduction from the Balkans thrives on our sandy soils and local paths are often covered in shiny brown conkers (seeds/fruit) in the Autumn. The birds couldn't carry the heavy seeds into our garden where they are always germinating but the grey squirrels could so perhaps they are the main seed distributors of Aesculus hippocastanum - apart for small boys playing the traditional game of conkers of course.

There is some evidence that the anthers of yellow flowers have not released their pollen (undehisced anthers) while the red ones have so that the red colour to which insects are less sensitive, doesn't attract as much insect attention as the red. On the other hand birds and mammals are more attracted to red coloured flowers.

Aesculus hippocastanum is found throughout the British Isles and Ireland.

Cheshire lane, 7th May 2005

Added on 8th May 05, amended 24th Dec 07, updated 21st Jun 08, updated 21st Feb 10, updated Se3 22nd Apr 10, updated 28th Feb 2012