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| At present, there is one Mexican buckeye (Ungnadia speciosa) in the arboretum collection. This species is not native to Louisiana or any of the other southeastern states. It's native to south-central Texas and further west. This species has excellent fall color and interesting fruits. Despite its name, the Mexican buckeye is of no immediate relation to our native red buckeye (Aesculus pavia) |
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| The Mexican buckeye isn't growing in the arboretum proper--this is the southeast corner of Mickle Hall. In the photo above, the Mexican buckeye is the yellow-orange shrub pictured on the left. A Texas mountain laurel grows across from it. |
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| In 1997, Professor Ed Leuck purchased this shrub, in a smaller form, from a local Home Depot store. The following year it was planted in its present location. |
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| This shrub is more than 20 years old. It's large, with an irregular shape. A more desirable shape could perhaps be achieved. This particular shrub has only been trimmed to keep the sidewalk clear. |
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| This Mexican buckeye was planted as one of a pair. The other buckeye was purchased from Woodlanders Nursery (Aiken, SC). It was planted nearby, but down the slope. It was removed in fall of last year, 2018, due to its poor health and unsightly appearance. |
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| Large, interesting fruits can be found among the bright yellow-orange leaves. |
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| Fruits are numerous. If so inclined, please take some! No need to hurry; fruits persist on the branches throughout the winter. However, keep in mind that they are reportedly poisonous. |
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| The fruits resemble sleigh bells. This time of year they are dried and split, revealing the seeds. |
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| These fruits have a musical quality--when shaken, they make a pleasing rattle. |
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| Fruits measure more than an inch across. |
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| The brittle capsules easily crack open. |
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| Seeds are round and very dark, blue or purple black, measuring approximately a half inch in diameter. |
This species also has beautiful flowers. You can find pictures here.
