- Horse Chestnut is also known by the names Buckeye and Spanish Chestnut. Note: do not confuse Horse Chestnut with its North relative Aesculusglabra californica, California Buckeye. The name Horse Chestnut arises historically from the use of this herb to help support horse's coughs, and being used as animal feed. The Horse Chestnut tree is native to Asia and northern Greece, but it is now cultivated in many areas of Europe and North America. The tree produces fruits that are made up of spiny capsu