Early Glow™ Buckeye

Early Glow™ is a selected Ohio buckeye valued for yellow-green spring flowers, early red fall color, and foliage that resists leaf scorch and blotch better than typical seedlings. The cultivar is sold as Aesculus glabra ‘JN Select’; Johnson’s Nursery records its selection in 1981 and describes a rounded-with-age canopy. ## Landscape Use This deciduous, medium-sized tree works as a shade or specimen tree in parks, larger yards, and streetscapes. Its relatively low seed production can reduce litter, though it does not make the tree seedless. The mature dimensions vary among nursery sources: Johnson’s lists about 35 feet high and wide, while [Acorn Farms](https://www.acornfarms.com/responsive/velocity/15AFcategories.php?pullname=AESCULUS+GLA+EARLY+GLOW) lists 30 feet high by 10 feet wide. ## Growing Conditions Plant in full sun or partial shade in moist, well-drained soil. The [Johnson’s Nursery profile](https://kb.jniplants.com/early-glow-buckeye-aesculus-glabra-jn-select) says its established taproot helps it tolerate dry sites and occasional drought, though young trees need consistent water; it also distinguishes tolerance of airborne salt spray from intolerance of heavy soil salt. Allow room for a broad canopy. Yellow-green flowers appear in May, followed by foliage that turns red to orange-red early in fall. All parts are poisonous if ingested, especially a concern around grazing animals. ## Maintenance Water during establishment and prolonged drought. If a street-tree form is wanted, begin structural canopy training while the tree is young; this is formative pruning rather than a recurring shearing requirement.