Yellow buckeye is a large tree with palmately compound leaves of five leaflets and upright clusters of yellow flowers in spring. The large, round seeds (buckeyes) are poisonous when raw.
Habitat and range
In Maryland, yellow buckeye is found in rich, moist coves and slopes, mainly in the western mountains and piedmont. It prefers cool, sheltered sites with deep, well-drained soil.
Uses and significance
The wood is soft and used for pulp and boxes. The tree is planted as an ornamental for its flowers and form. Buckeyes are not edible but are associated with folklore and good luck in many regions.