The buckeye tree (aesculus glabra) is native to North America. In late summer and early fall, the trees bear fruit that containa large nut. The nutgives the tree its name because it is dark brownwith a light spot, resembling the shape and color of a deer's eye. The buckeye was named the state tree of Ohio in 1953.
The term buckeye has widely beenused to describe residents of Ohio in general since the mid 1800s. It became popular when supporters of William Henry Harrison's successful presidential campaign carved souvenirs out of buckeye wood.
The word buckeye also appears in the names of manygeographic areas including the community of Buckeye in Jackson county, Buckeye Lake in Fairfield and Licking Counties, and the Buckeye Trail, which is a hiking trail that loops around the state.
The buckeye is used in the names of many Ohio-based companies and organizations. Itis the official mascot of The Ohio State University, wherecurrent students and alumni refer to themselves as Buckeyes.
The buckeye also lends its name to a popular confection. Chocolate buckeyes are peanut butter bonbons partially dipped in chocolate. Part of the light-colored filling is left un-coated giving the candy the appearance of a buckeye nut. While the buckeye nut is poisonous, the buckeye treat is delicious.
