This hybrid between Aesculus flava and Aesculus pavia arose on its own at the Arnold Arboretum in Cambridge, Massachusetts, combining the better qualities of both parents into a medium-sized deciduous tree that grows 15 to 35 feet tall with a rounded to broadly rounded, low-branched habit. The flowers are typical chestnut-style clusters held at the branch tips in spring, followed by chestnut-like fruits in autumn. Fall color can be attractive, and the cultivar Autumn Splendor is selected specifically for its autumn display.

Arnold buckeye prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate some shade, though it performs best with reasonable light. It is more forgiving of urban conditions than many in the genus and is sometimes used as a street tree where overhead clearance allows. Pest and disease problems are minimal compared to the parent species. Site it where its medium-coarse texture and rounded form can anchor a large bed or provide shade over a lawn without demanding much in return.