Aesculus californica is a native species that grows prolifically throughout the Bay Area. As a large shrub or small tree growing to 13-39′ tall, it’s typically multi-trunked with a crown as broad as the height. The leaves are tender and prone to heat or extreme cold damage with a dark green color and a finely toothed margin. It also tends to drop leaves readily. Exercise caution when installing this plant as the fruit is toxic. Aesculus californica is deer resistant, clay soil tolerant and it performs best with little water.