The tree
The horse chestnut tree (Aesculus hippocastanum), originated in the Balkans. It was introduced to Britain in the 1600's as an ornamental tree. It is now widely distributed throughout our broadleafed woodlands.
The leaves of the horse chestnut are some of the earliest to open in Spring. They are made up of 5 or 7 leaflets growing from a central point at the head of the leaf stalk. The spectacular flowers come out in May and June. These large clusters (or candles) are either pink or white. After pollination by early flying bumble bees the prickly fruit cases start to develop containing their precious bounty. The conkers are ready from mid to late September. Though there is usually only one conker per case, there may be two or even three.