When it comes to identifying trees with prickly balls, there are a few common options to consider: buckeye/horsechestnut (Aesculus), chestnut (Castanea), or sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciflua). Let’s explore each of these trees and their distinctive characteristics.
1. Buckeye/Horsechestnut (Aesculus):
These trees are known for their round, spiky balls that contain buckeye nuts. The balls are usually green and covered in sharp, spiny projections. They are typically found in the fall after the tree has finished blooming. The buckeye nuts inside the balls are smooth, shiny, and brown in color.
I have encountered buckeye trees in my own garden, and their prickly balls can be quite a surprise when you accidentally step on them. However, they add an interesting texture to the landscape, especially when they start to fall and create a carpet of spiky orbs.
2. Chestnut (Castanea):
Chestnut trees also produce prickly balls, but they are usually larger and more elongated compared to buckeye balls. These balls, known as chestnut burrs, are covered in sharp, needle-like spines. They house the chestnuts themselves, which are delicious and often roasted during the holiday season.
I remember as a child, my family and I would go chestnut picking in the nearby woods. The prickly burrs would litter the ground, making it a bit of a challenge to collect the chestnuts. But the reward of cracking open the spiky shell and enjoying the sweet nut inside was well worth it.
3. Sweet Gum (Liquidambar styraciflua):
Sweet gum trees are known for their distinctive star-shaped leaves, but they also produce intriguing spiky balls. These balls, commonly referred to as “gumballs,” are round and covered in numerous small, spiky projections. They start off green and eventually turn brown as they mature.
As a landscaper, I have often come across sweet gum trees, and their gumballs can be a bit of a nuisance. They can litter the ground and make walking barefoot uncomfortable. However, some people find creative uses for these prickly balls, such as using them in crafts or as natural mulch.
If you come across round, spiny balls under a tree or still on the plant, chances are it could be from a buckeye/horsechestnut, chestnut, or sweet gum tree. Each tree has its own unique characteristics, and while their prickly balls may be a bit of a hassle to deal with, they add an interesting element to the landscape.
