905-1 Buckeye-Ohio (Packed In Units of 25 Seedlings)

Ohio Buckeye: (Aesculus glabra) is a striking medium-sized deciduous tree native to the Midwest and Great Plains regions of the United States. Recognizable by its unique palmately compound leaves, which usually feature five to seven leaflets, the tree bursts into colorful bloom with yellow-green flowers each spring. As fall approaches, its leaves transform into vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red. The tree produces intriguing fruit: a round, leathery husk adorned with short prickles that splits open to reveal one or two glossy dark brown seeds, characterized by a distinct light tan patch resembling a deer's eye, which is the origin of its name. However, it’s important to note that all parts of the tree are highly toxic to humans and most livestock due to a narcotic glucoside, though squirrels may consume the nuts in moderation. The Ohio buckeye also emits an unpleasant odor when its leaves and bark are crushed, earning it the alternative names "fetid buckeye" or "stinking buckeye." Native American tribes, such as the Lenape, have utilized the nuts for various medicinal purposes, including treatments for rheumatism and earaches, and even employed them in fish poisoning techniques. Additionally, the nuts were blanched for tannic acid extraction, which was valuable in leather making, and they could be dried and crafted into decorative necklaces similar to those made from kukui nuts in Hawaii.