Tree with strange looking, grey-brown 10cm seed capsules

Question

while hiking in Central Europe the other day, I encountered a small tree having really odd looking seeds. These are about 10 cm long and contain two seeds. The outside feels a little bit like a short fur. The picture shows the open seed capsule.

Question: Any idea what kind of tree (or bush) that is and what it needs if I want to grow it?

Thanks a lot!
Ronny

Answer 1

As noted by @Giacomo Catenazzi in the comments, if you want to try sprouting the seeds, just duplicate their natural environment. I assume that the tree/shrub is growing in a temperate climate, with a cold winter.

1. Pot the seeds maybe 2cm deep in a small pot with drainage holes, water well,remove excess water from the drainage saucer (if any) and then place the pot in a refrigerator or (better) an unheated shed or garage (protect from rodents if you do this).
2. Periodically, check for sprouting.

--If the seeds sprout, move the pot into your house and treat as a houseplant.

--If the plants don't sprout, remove the pot from the refrigerator or shed in, say, late February or early March and put under lights or in a window.

3. Water as needed.

I've had success doing this with Aesculus, Cercis, and Acer species.

Alternatively, plant the seeds outside, mark the location, protect from rodents with screening, and see what happens in the spring.