Tree Collection

Franklin Park Conservatory sits within an 88-acre green space oasis and is home to 1,593 trees, including 169 species, that provide important ecological benefits such as cleaner and cooler air, bird and pollinator habitats, beautification, and health improvement for neighbors. Urban tree canopies are critical to improving air and water quality, reducing greenhouse gasses and atmospheric warming, beautifying the community, and positively impacting the health and wellness of urban residents. The Conservatory’s horticulture team is committed to the health and maintenance of its current tree collection, not only for the benefit of our visitors but for the entire community living and working in downtown Columbus.

Tree of the Month: May

Red Buckeye (Aesculus pavia)

Plant Family: Sapindaceae

Light: Full sun with afternoon shade

Height: 15 -20 ft in cultivation

Spread: 15 – 20 ft

USDA Hardiness Zone: 4-8

Origin: Southern and Eastern US

Location on Property: Working Yard: Kind Gift of Pam & Jack Beeler Family, located in the
Community Garden Campus

The Red Buckeye, a member of the Horse Chestnut family, is a small native tree or large shrub
that is common in woods, along stream beds and on rocky hillsides in the Southern and Eastern
United States. The common name Red Buckeye refers to the 6-8’ dark red tuberous flowers that
form in showy clusters in the spring. These impressive flowers provide nectar for early
hummingbirds and bees. The word Buckeye describes the nut-like seeds that resemble the eye
of a buck deer. Squirrels can eat the seeds, but they are poisonous to humans and most
livestock.
This tree is highly adaptable and prefers moist well drained soils but will do well in most soil
textures. It can tolerate brief periods of flooding. The Red Buckeye will perform best in
partial shade or full sun when protected from the west sun in the late afternoon. The afternoon sun
may cause leaf scorch and growth will be shrubby and open in full shade.
The Red Buckeye can be a good accent in shaded areas, utilized in woodland or naturalized
areas, as a specimen along ponds and streams or in a wildlife garden.

Tree Gallery

Franklin Park Conservatory Tree Inventory 

This inventory includes 1,593 trees across Franklin Park and the Conservatory and 169 unique species. Each dot on the map represents a tree present in that location. Tree species are represented by the color of the dot and details about individual trees are easily found by selecting a tree. Tree species and size, as well as the ecological and economic benefits of that tree, are displayed in the “Details” tab on the right side of the map. Visit Ahlum & Arbor to view the tree inventory HERE.

Special thanks to our tree care partner, Ahlum & Arbor Tree Preservation!

Who is Ahlum & Arbor Tree Preservation?

Ahlum & Arbor Tree Preservation is one of Central Ohio’s premier arboricultural companies and a great partner to the Conservatory. Founded over 40 years ago, Ahlum & Arbor has a long history of exceptional quality, professionalism, and expertise. Ahlum & Arbor has an uncompromising standard of excellence and is one of the few companies in the state of Ohio to be accredited by the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA). Click HERE to learn more about Ahlum & Arbor Tree Preservation.