Boy Scout Stumper

Cherokee

While taking my scout troop on a tracking hike, we came across this tree in Pt. Defiance park, Tacoma WA. Probably 40 ft. tall with these broad leaves. At the base of the tree were spiked seed pods. I've never seen this before and any help is greatly appreciated.

Attached Thumbnails

 

Brent Ferris

Looks like Common Horsechestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) - Leaves are opposite, usually 7 leaflets, sometimes 5, spring flowers are very showy, and white usually May-June, fruit is ball like and covered with spines, typically 2 - 2 1/2 inch diameter with 1 sometimes 2 (rarely 3) capsules within. These are reddish brown and shiny. Are edible, but high in tannins and need to cut up and rinse with water at least 7 to 10 times. Useful for combatting diarrhea.
In Ontario, Horse Chestnut typically grows to 70-80 ft, sometimes higher. Branches are brittle, and the form of the tree has the branches swooping down, and then lifting up near the ends.,
The wood has a very low density, minimal to no firewood value (unless nothing else) -- prone to rot -- poor compartmentalizer.

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Cherokee

BIG thanks! I will pass this on to the troop. Much appreciated!